Does Medicare Cover X-Rays?

Most people have to get x-rays at some point in their life. They can be used to examine an area of the body to check for broken bones, to monitor how a disease is progressing (i.e., osteoporosis) or see if a treatment is working.

Since x-rays are an important medical test, if the time comes when you need to get one, a common question you may have is, “Does Medicare cover x-Rays?”

In this article, we answer the question in clear, plain English. You will also find the average costs of x-rays and other helpful info.

The short answer is yes; Medicare will cover the cost of x-rays tests. But not 100% of the time. As is often the case with Medicare, you must meet certain conditions for Medicare to pay for your x-rays tests.

Below we look at what these are so you know what to expect.

Original Medicare Coverage of X-Rays

Original Medicare (Medicare Part A and Part B) provides coverage for x-rays. Original Medicare provides coverage for your x-rays if considered necessary.

Your healthcare provider must place an order stating that you need to get an x-ray.

Please note there are some situations where Original Medicare will not cover an x-ray. For example, it will not cover x-rays for routine dental care. Also, if a chiropractor orders you to get x-rays, Medicare will not cover them.

Part A Coverage of SX-Rays

When an x-ray takes place in an inpatient setting, Part A covers your test. Medicare Part A will cover 100 percent of the costs of hospital stays for up to 60 days.

Starting from the 61st day up to 90 days, Medicare Part A will still provide coverage. Yet, you will pay a copayment each day you are in the hospital. After 90 days, Medicare Part A will no longer provide coverage.

With that said, Medicare Part A provides 60 lifetime reserve days you can use if you still have them available.

Part B Coverage of X-Rays

Conversely, Part B covers outpatient x-rays tests. Once approved, Medicare Part B covers 80 percent of the costs of x-rays tests. You will pay for the remaining 20 percent.

Medicare Advantage Coverage of Spinal Fusion Surgery

Medicare Advantage plans (Medicare Part C) also provide coverage for x-rays tests. Advantage plans must cover the same tests, treatments and procedures as Original Medicare.

These plans, however, will also cover some benefits that Parts A and B will not cover. However, what it covers and how much the out-of-pocket costs are will vary from plan to plan.

How Much Do X-Ray Tests Cost?

X-ray tests may cost somewhere from $100 to $1,000. The average cost of x-ray tests ranges from $260 to $460.

How much x-ray tests cost will depend on which body part is being tested. The national average cost for a chest x-ray is $420.

Meanwhile, the national average cost for an x-ray on the spine is about $320. Dental x-ray tests can cost from $20-250. A foot x-ray costs less than a chest and spine x-ray test, costing only $290.

Another factor that will affect the costs of x-ray tests is the facility where you have the test done.

Note: Medicare coverage changes all the time. And your specific coverage may vary from plan to plan for Medicare Advantage. Always be sure to double-check with your health care provider and/or Medicare insurance provider about what your plan covers and what it does not.