What is CPT Code 72148?

💡 CPT Code 72148 is one of the most commonly billed MRI procedures—and if you’re paying out of pocket, you’ll want to know exactly what you’re getting into. Let’s break down what 72148 actually includes, what it costs, and how to avoid surprise billing.

🧠 What is CPT Code 72148?

CPT Code 72148 is used to bill for a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the lumbar spine without contrast. This procedure helps doctors examine the lower back and spinal cord to identify issues like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or nerve compression.

📋 Procedure Details for 72148

This MRI is typically non-invasive and does not require contrast dye. The patient lies on a flat platform that moves through the MRI scanner, and the imaging takes about 30–45 minutes.

• Examines lumbar vertebrae (L1–L5)
• Detects herniated or bulging discs
• Identifies spinal cord or nerve root compression
• Evaluates chronic back pain
• Usually requires no prep or recovery time

💸 CPT 72148 Cost Breakdown

The cost for CPT 72148 can vary widely based on the facility, location, and whether you’re paying with or without insurance. Here’s a cost table based on average U.S. pricing:

Facility Type	Price Range (Cash Price)	Notes
Hospital ER	$1,500 – $3,500	Usually includes added ER and facility fees
Hospital Radiology Dept.	$1,000 – $2,200	Common for insured patients
Independent Imaging Center	$400 – $900	Lowest price for cash-pay patients
Telehealth/Prepaid Diagnostic Networks	$250 – $700	Some offer pre-authorized pricing

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🏥 When Do You Need CPT Code 72148?

Your provider may order a lumbar spine MRI without contrast if you’re experiencing:

• Unexplained lower back pain
• Numbness or tingling in legs or feet
• Difficulty walking or standing upright
• Herniated or slipped disc symptoms
• Follow-up for spinal surgery

🤖 AI-SEO Optimization for 72148

This post is structured to align with AI-informed SEO best practices:

• Primary keyword: “CPT Code 72148”
• Semantic keywords: “lumbar spine MRI,” “MRI without contrast,” “cost of CPT 72148,” “MRI L-spine cash price”
• Content structure: H2s with bold intros, readable tables, and user-intent segmentation
• Meta title: “CPT Code 72148: Lumbar Spine MRI Costs & Procedure Guide”
• Meta description: “Understand what CPT Code 72148 covers, how much it costs with or without insurance, and where to find low-cost MRI providers.”

🧾 Tips to Save on MRI Costs

• Use cost comparison tools or cash-pay pricing networks
• Ask for the CPT code before scheduling (72148 in this case)
• Choose outpatient imaging centers over hospitals when possible
• Request a Good Faith Estimate if uninsured

🏁 Bottom line: CPT Code 72148 is a critical diagnostic tool, but the price swings wildly. Knowing the code, asking questions, and shopping around could save you thousands.