How Much Is a PET Scan? A Complete Cost Breakdown for Pet Owners and Patients

If you’ve been advised to get a PET scan or are researching diagnostic options for yourself or a loved one, one of the first questions you might ask is: how much is a PET scan? This highly advanced imaging test is incredibly valuable for detecting diseases like cancer, neurological disorders, and heart problems—but it can also come with a hefty price tag.

In this article, we’ll break down what a PET scan is, what factors affect its cost, and what you can expect whether you’re paying out of pocket or using insurance.

🧠 What Is a PET Scan?

A PET scan (Positron Emission Tomography) is a medical imaging procedure that uses a small amount of radioactive tracer to highlight areas of metabolic activity in the body. It’s often used to:

• Detect cancer and monitor its spread
• Assess brain function and neurological conditions
• Diagnose heart disease and evaluate blood flow
• Monitor treatment effectiveness

PET scans are often combined with CT scans for more accurate results, known as PET/CT scans.

💰 So, How Much Is a PET Scan?

The average cost of a PET scan in the United States ranges from $2,000 to $6,000. However, the exact price can vary significantly based on several factors:

Factor	Cost Impact
Location	Urban hospitals may charge more than outpatient clinics or rural centers.
Facility Type	Hospitals are usually more expensive than imaging centers.
Type of Scan	PET only vs. PET/CT or PET/MRI can change the price.
Body Area	Full-body scans may cost more than scans targeting specific regions.
Insurance	Coverage varies by provider, condition, and plan details.
Out-of-Pocket vs. Covered	Without insurance, you’ll pay the full fee; with insurance, your cost may range from $0–$1,000 depending on deductibles.

🏥 Sample Cost Estimates by Region

Here’s a rough idea of what you might expect to pay across different U.S. cities:

• New York City: $3,500–$6,000
• Los Angeles: $2,800–$5,500
• Chicago: $2,500–$4,800
• Houston: $2,200–$4,000
• Miami: $2,000–$3,500

If you’re outside the U.S., PET scan prices may differ greatly. For example:

• UK (private): £1,000–£2,500
• India: ₹15,000–₹30,000
• Canada (private): CAD $2,000–$3,500
• Australia: AUD $1,500–$3,000

📋 What Does the Cost Include?

When asking how much is a PET scan, it’s important to understand what the fee typically covers:

• Initial consultation or referral
• Radioactive tracer injection
• Imaging session (30–60 minutes)
• Radiologist interpretation/report
• Follow-up consultation (if needed)

Always ask the provider for a detailed cost breakdown and check if additional charges apply for pre-scan tests (like bloodwork) or sedation.

🩺 Insurance and PET Scans

✅ When Is a PET Scan Covered?

Most insurance plans—including Medicare and Medicaid—do cover PET scans, but only under specific conditions. These often include:

• Cancer diagnosis or treatment planning
• Evaluation of heart damage
• Assessment of epilepsy or Alzheimer’s disease

Prior authorization is often required, and some plans may limit how often the scan can be done.

💳 What Will You Pay with Insurance?

Even with coverage, you may be responsible for:

• Deductibles
• Co-pays or coinsurance
• Out-of-network fees

This could leave you paying $300 to $1,000+ out of pocket, depending on your plan.

💡 Tips to Reduce PET Scan Costs

If you’re concerned about the cost, try these smart strategies:

🔹 1. Use Insurance Wisely

Call your insurer and ask:

• Is the scan covered for my condition?
• What will I owe?
• Are there in-network facilities I should use?

🔹 2. Shop Around

Prices vary dramatically between facilities. Use platforms like:

• MDsave
• Healthcare Bluebook
• Radiology Assist

You can often save up to 50% by choosing an outpatient imaging center over a hospital.

🔹 3. Ask for a Cash Discount

Some facilities offer a lower flat rate if you’re paying cash. Be sure to ask!

🔹 4. Consider Medical Tourism

Some patients travel to other countries for significantly lower prices. Always research credentials, equipment, and reviews.

🧾 What to Ask Before Scheduling

Here are key questions to ask your provider or imaging center:

• “How much is the PET scan, including all fees?”
• “Do you offer a discount for self-pay?”
• “Is this scan covered by my insurance?”
• “Is the radiologist’s fee included?”
• “Do you offer financing or payment plans?”

Getting clear answers can help avoid surprise bills.

✅ Final Thoughts

Understanding how much a PET scan costs is essential when planning for this important diagnostic tool. While the average price can range from $2,000 to $6,000, your actual cost will depend on factors like insurance coverage, facility choice, and geographic location.

If you’re proactive—by comparing prices, checking insurance benefits, and asking the right questions—you can ensure high-quality care without breaking the bank. Whether you’re managing a health condition or supporting a loved one, knowing your options helps you make informed, financially sound decisions.