Overview
An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a non-invasive test that utilizes magnetism and radio frequencies to create detailed pictures of your internal organs, bones, and soft tissue. An MRI will typically be ordered to evaluate for:
- Problems in both the brain and spinal cord (including tumors/cysts)
- Injury to a joint (e.g., knee, shoulder)
- Issues with the heart or liver (e.g., coronary artery disease, hepatitis)
- Any disorders of the blood vessels (e.g., aneurysms)
An MRI is generally the only way for a doctor to visualize soft tissue structures in the body clearly. While there may sometimes be some overlap with images from other imaging studies (e.g., CT or Ultrasound), an MRI is usually the most appropriate choice when it comes to identifying soft tissue pathology.
Why is MRI So Expensive in India?
There are many aspects that help to decide “on what basis the mri cost is calculated?”:
- It will be determined by many aspects, the amount you will be charged for an MRI scan.
- The type of MRI scan you will undergo will be determined by your type of MRI scan. The prices of a head MRI will vary from the cost of a full body or spine MRI, and so on.
- Several MRI scans utilize contrast agents which can enhance the quality of your images. The costs and use of a contrast agent can be included in the overall price for your MRI or billed separately.
- The price you will pay for your MRI will be affected by where it is performed. There may be differences in prices for the same MRI depending on the facility performing the MRI.
- The geographical location from where you are getting your MRI will also be a factor in the price for the MRI. If the MRI is performed in a large metropolitan area then generally it will be at a higher price than an MRI performed in a rural area.
- The technology that is available on the MRI machine will also have an impact on your price. MRI technology has a wide range of both older machines and newer machines with more advanced technologies, therefore the prices for MRIs will vary depending upon the technology used in your MRI.
What is The Common MRI Scan Price in Delhi?
- Typically a basic MRI scan of one body part will cost around ₹3000 – ₹6000 across the board at most centers through carebox.
- An MRI scan without contrast (i.e., Brain, Spine, Joints) are typically priced between ₹4000 – ₹8000 across the majority of centers.
- An MRI scan requiring contrast typically will range in price from ₹7000 – ₹15000 depending upon the type of MRI being performed.
- For a full-body MRI scan, expect to pay in the region of ₹12000 – ₹25000, although in some situations that may also go higher than that amount.
Typical Pricing Ranges in Delhi and Other Cities
Basic MRI Scans (i.e., Brain MRI with no contrast): Many MRI Providers offer MRI Scans at pricing levels ranging from ₹4000 – ₹6000.
- Complicated or contrast MRI Exams tend to fall within the pricing range from ₹6500 – ₹8500 for many providers.
- Extensive Full Body MRI Scans will typically cost between ₹15000 to ₹22000 depending on where the facility is located and how complex the MRI is, and sometimes the cost of the scans may be significantly higher than that. (CareBox)
What to Check Before Booking an MRI Avoid Hidden Costs & Get Best Value
- Following is a recommended set of considerations to help minimize surprise expenses after booking your MRI and also to help you get the best possible service for your dollar.
- Ensure that the price you are quoted includes the cost of the consultation with the Radiologist and the receipt of a report in both digital and hard copies; as well as images such as CD/FILM from the actual testing.
- Ascertain whether the MRI will be performed on a 1.5T or 3T machine. A 3T machine typically generates a higher quality image; however, these scanners are generally priced higher than the 1.5T scanners.
- Be on the lookout for special discount programs that are available. For example, these discounts may be tied to private websites, promotional offers, booking discounts given for utilizing the service(s) during slower times of the year.
- For an MRI exam that includes a contrast injection, you must confirm the cost of the contrast material and that it will be billed separately from the MRI price.
- Before having the MRI done, you must decide whether you would like to have it done at a hospital or at an independent imaging centre. Some independent imaging centres are able to charge lower prices for less complex MRI studies compared to hospitals.
- Find out if the imaging facility you are considering has current accreditation/registration as this ensures that they provide quality imaging services.
Cost of Different MRI Scan in Delhi
Here are some of the most recommended MRI scan with lowest price by radiologists and doctors:
- Brain MRI Scan in Delhi – 4500 Rs
- MRI Brain with contrast – 6000 Rs
- MRI of Knee – 3000 Rs (Both– 6000 – 7000 Rs)
- MRI Chest with contrast – 8000 Rs (Without contrast – 6000 Rs)
- MRI Whole Abdomen – 9000 Rs
Now here we’ve mentioned some of the most done MRI scans in a lower period of time and you can understand that “What Affects the MRI Scan Cost in India?”
Conclusion
MRI prices in India are lower on average, compared to most other countries; however, MRI pricing differs greatly across several factors.Most diagnostic centers (Delhi and/or metro city) will charge between ₹4,000-₹8,000 for an MRI for typical uses (brain/spine/ joint). However, this pricing can vary widely based on complexity.Complex Instances (Whole-Body/Contrast), most centres have a pricing model that suggests a budget of ₹10,000-₹25,000 or higher depending on the type of imaging and how the scanning is to be completed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How Much Does A Full Body MRI Scan Cost in India?
The whole-body MRI generally costs between ₹13,000 and ₹50,000, but in some major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore.
Q. What Prep Is Needed Before An MRI Scan?
Before an MRI, you need to remove all metal jewellery, hairpins, and zippers, wear loose clothing or a gown, inform staff about implants, allergies, or claustrophobies.
Q. Is MRI Good For The Knee?
The MRI is great for the knee and is one of the best diagnostic tools to provide detailed views of soft tissues, such as ligaments-ACL and PCL, menisci (cartilage).
Q. Can MRI detect Brain Damage?
Yes, MRI itself is very good for showing injuries to the brain, including structural changes, bleeding, swelling, tumors, and signs of stroke.
