How Much Does an MRI Cost in Provo, Utah? (2025)
Provo and Utah County have some of the most dramatic MRI price gaps in the state. The same knee MRI scan that costs $199 at an independent imaging center can run $1,800 or more at an Intermountain or Utah Valley Regional hospital outpatient department. Here's what you'll actually pay — and where to find the best price.
What does an MRI cost in Provo, Utah?
Cash pay MRI prices in the Provo/Orem/Utah County area:
• Knee MRI (CPT 73721): $199 – $1,400 • Lower Back (Lumbar) MRI (CPT 72148): $250 – $1,800 • Brain MRI with contrast (CPT 70553): $400 – $2,200 • Shoulder MRI (CPT 73221): $199 – $1,300
Independent imaging centers in Provo and Orem offer the lowest prices. Hospital-owned facilities (Utah Valley Hospital, Timpanogos Regional) add facility fees that can multiply the cost 5–8x.
Imaging center vs. hospital in Utah County
Provo and Orem have several independent imaging centers that compete aggressively on price for cash-pay patients. These facilities use the same MRI equipment and board-certified radiologists as hospitals — the only difference is cost.
Intermountain Health's Utah Valley Hospital is the dominant system in the area. Their published cash prices are significantly higher than independent centers. If you haven't met your deductible and are paying out of pocket, an independent imaging center will almost always save you $500–$1,200 on the same scan.
How to get the best MRI price in Provo
1. Use Prevu Med to compare real cash prices from multiple Provo-area providers before calling anyone. 2. Ask specifically for the 'cash pay' or 'self-pay' rate — some facilities have unpublished discounts. 3. Choose an outpatient imaging center over a hospital unless your doctor has a specific medical reason to use the hospital. 4. Bring your MRI order from your doctor — most centers require a physician's order.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a knee MRI cost in Provo without insurance?
A knee MRI in Provo or Utah County costs $199–$1,400 cash pay. Independent imaging centers offer the lowest prices. Hospital outpatient MRIs can exceed $1,500 for the same scan.
Where is the cheapest MRI in Utah County?
Independent freestanding imaging centers in Provo and Orem typically offer the lowest MRI prices in Utah County. Use Prevu Med to see current cash prices and compare before you book.
Do I need a doctor's referral for an MRI in Provo?
Most imaging centers in Provo require a physician's order. Your primary care provider or urgent care can typically provide one. Some telehealth services can also issue imaging orders.
Is a cash pay MRI as good as going through insurance?
Yes. The scan quality and radiologist reading are identical. The only difference is who pays. If you're paying out of pocket anyway (haven't met deductible), cash pay at an independent center is almost always cheaper than going through insurance at a hospital.
See actual cash pay prices from providers nationwide for Knee MRI.
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