This blog offers a detailed guide on MRI scan costs in India. You’ll learn what an MRI scan is, how it works, and what factors affect its pricing. We’ll break down the costs by body part (brain, spine, knee, full body) and city-wise comparisons. Get expert advice on how to obtain low-cost scans, as well as answers to the most frequently asked questions concerning MRI costs.
An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan is a painless procedure that employs powerful magnets and radio waves to produce comprehensive images of organs, tissues, and bones. It’s often used to check for:
Doctors recommend MRI scans when they need to see the body’s soft tissues clearly, which other scans like X-rays can’t always show well.
MRI machines look like big tubes surrounded by a circular magnet. When you lie within the gadget, it employs magnetic fields and radio waves to capture photos. It doesn’t use any harmful radiation like X-rays or CT scans.
The images come out in slices, which means doctors can look at the body layer by layer. Sometimes, a contrast dye is used to make the images clearer, depending on what the doctor is checking.
The cost of an MRI scan in India might vary depending on several factors:
Below are the typical costs based on the type of MRI scan:
This type scans the entire body and is often used for cancer detection or health checkups.
Average cost: ₹10,000 – ₹25,000
Head MRI scans are done to detect brain injuries, tumors, or stroke.
Average cost: ₹3,000 – ₹7,000
Though similar to a head MRI, a brain scan focuses more on neurological issues like seizures or memory loss.
Average cost: ₹3,500 – ₹8,000
Knee MRIs are used to detect ligament tears, cartilage damage, or arthritis.
Average cost: ₹3,000 – ₹6,000
Spine MRIs help diagnose slipped discs, spinal cord issues, or back pain.
Average cost: ₹4,000 – ₹9,000
Here’s a city-wise comparison of average MRI scan prices:
City | Head MRI (₹) | Knee MRI (₹) | Spine MRI (₹) | Full Body MRI (₹) |
Delhi | 4,000 – 7,000 | 3,500 – 6,000 | 4,500 – 8,000 | 15,000 – 22,000 |
Mumbai | 4,500 – 8,000 | 4,000 – 6,500 | 5,000 – 9,000 | 15,000 – 25,000 |
Bangalore | 4,000 – 6,500 | 3,500 – 5,500 | 4,500 – 7,500 | 14,000 – 20,000 |
Chennai | 3,500 – 6,000 | 3,000 – 5,500 | 4,000 – 7,000 | 13,000 – 19,000 |
Hyderabad | 3,800 – 6,500 | 3,200 – 5,800 | 4,200 – 7,000 | 13,000 – 18,000 |
Pune | 3,500 – 6,000 | 3,200 – 5,500 | 4,000 – 6,500 | 12,000 – 17,000 |
Kolkata | 3,500 – 6,500 | 3,000 – 5,000 | 4,000 – 7,000 | 13,000 – 18,000 |
These prices can vary based on whether the scan is with or without contrast, and whether you go to a private center or a public hospital.
Here are some smart ways to reduce your MRI scan expenses:
Many hospitals, like Ashtvinayak Hospital, offer diagnostic packages that include MRI scans at discounted rates.
Websites like 1mg, Pristyn Care, and LabsAdvisor offer online MRI bookings with offers and price comparisons.
Some insurance plans cover diagnostic scans. Check with your provider.
Sometimes free or low-cost MRI camps are organized by NGOs or hospitals.
MRI scans are essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. While costs can vary based on the type of scan and where you get it, there are many ways to manage the expenses. Diagnostic centers, hospitals like Ashtvinayak Hospital, and online platforms now offer competitive prices, ensuring that quality care is within reach.
By understanding what affects MRI scan costs and exploring all your options, you can make smarter, more affordable health choices.
Yes, many insurance policies cover MRI scans, especially if prescribed during hospitalization.
It can take anywhere from 15 minutes to over an hour, depending on the area being scanned.
Yes, MRI is safe. It doesn’t use radiation. However, patients with pacemakers or certain implants should avoid it.
CT scans are usually cheaper (₹1,500 – ₹4,000), but they use radiation and may not give the same soft tissue clarity as MRI.
Usually, no special preparation is needed. But if you’re getting a contrast MRI, you might need to fast for a few hours.
