How much does an X-ray cost in Australia?
If you require an X-ray in Australia, you may be wondering about the charges for X-ray procedures and how much you can expect to pay. The current Australian healthcare system can be difficult to navigate regarding Xray scans,so let us help guide you.
If you are admitted to a public hospital, and an x-ray is needed or appropriate, it will usually be free. However, if you haven’t been admitted through a public hospital and feel as though you need an X-Ray there are two main options.
Firstly you can go through your GP Doctor who can refer you for an X-Ray, and Secondly, you can go through a Physiotherapist who can also book you in and write you in for an X-Ray scan.
You will need to see a healthcare professional such as one of these for a referral and can’t go directly to an imaging centre because Physio’s and Doctors in Australia have a provider number given to them by Medicare which matches their qualifications to their role, and the imaging centre needs this to ensure patients are correctly being referred for a scan.
Furthermore, both professions will write in the referral what they want the radiologist to look at in the scan. This is important as major bone breaks are easy to identify, however smaller fractures such as those in the fibula with an ankle sprain or bones in the hand, need the radiologist to focus specifically on this area.
Understanding the cost of medical imaging like X-rays can help you budget and avoid any surprises. Let's break down the factors that influence the X-ray cost in Australia and what you should be aware of when booking your next imaging appointment.
We’ve written previous posts on MRI and Ultrasounds here as well if you need them.
Factors Influencing X-ray Costs in Australia
The cost of an X-ray can vary depending on several factors, including:
Type of X-ray: The specific area of the body being examined, such as a chest X-ray, dental X-ray, or a more complex musculoskeletal scan, can impact the price. More specialised X-rays often cost more.
Location: Prices can fluctuate depending on where you're getting your X-ray. For example, an X-ray performed in a public hospital may have different costs compared to those at private clinics or imaging centers as mentioned above.
Medicare Rebates: If you're eligible, Medicare can cover some or all of the cost of your X-ray, reducing your out-of-pocket expenses. However, if the service is performed at a private clinic that does not bulk bill, you may have to pay upfront and claim a rebate later.
Private Health Insurance: Some private health insurance policies will cover X-ray costs, but it depends on your level of coverage and the provider. It's a good idea to check with your insurer before booking.
Average Charges for X-ray in Australia
While prices can vary, here’s a general idea of the X-ray cost in Australia:
Basic X-ray: $80 to $150
Specialised X-ray (such as spinal): $150 to $300
If you have a Medicare card and the service is bulk-billed, there’s no cost at all. However, if the provider does not bulk bill, you might pay the full price upfront, and then Medicare will refund a portion of the cost. Depending on the rebate, the out-of-pocket expenses for a standard X-ray may range from $30 to $70.
How to Save on X-ray Costs
Check if Bulk Billing is Available: Many public hospitals and some private clinics offer bulk billing for X-rays. This means there’s no upfront cost, and the clinic bills Medicare directly.
Build a Relationship with a Physiotherapist: With longer term patients that we know. At times Physiotherapists are happy to send through referrals for scans via email after a quick discussion on the phone. This can save time and money.
Compare Costs at Different Clinics: Prices can vary between clinics, so it can be worthwhile to shop around. Private imaging centers, especially in major cities, may have higher fees than public hospitals.
Check Insurance Coverage: If you have private health insurance, verify whether the cost of the X-ray is covered and how much you’ll need to pay out-of-pocket.
Ask Your Doctor for Alternatives: In some cases, a less expensive form of imaging, such as an ultrasound, might be sufficient, so it’s worth discussing with your healthcare provider.
Other Factors to Consider with the Cost of an X-Ray in Australia
When considering the cost of an X-ray in Australia, several additional factors can influence what you pay. One key consideration is the urgency of the scan. Emergency or after-hours X-rays may come with higher fees, especially if they are needed outside regular clinic hours or at an emergency room. The type of equipment and technology used also plays a role in pricing. Advanced technology, such as digital X-ray machines, often leads to higher costs because of the superior image quality and processing involved.
Radiologist fees are another factor to keep in mind. Some facilities charge a separate fee for the radiologist's interpretation of the X-ray, and this fee can vary based on the radiologist’s expertise or the complexity of the scan. Additionally, certain types of X-rays may require multiple views or angles to get a complete assessment, and each additional view could increase the total cost, especially for complex scans like spinal X-rays.
The location of the imaging facility also affects costs. X-rays done in rural or remote areas might be more expensive due to limited facilities and higher equipment maintenance costs, whereas urban areas may have more competitive pricing due to the availability of multiple providers. In some cases, the type of referral you have can impact the cost too. For example, referrals from general practitioners may be eligible for different rates than referrals from specialists, who might require more detailed imaging.
Costs can also vary by state or territory, as each region may have different healthcare regulations or subsidies that affect pricing in both public and private settings. If you are undergoing an X-ray as an outpatient at a private clinic, you may encounter higher fees compared to inpatients, for whom X-rays are typically included in the overall hospital cost.
Finally, additional imaging requirements can lead to unexpected costs. Sometimes, radiologists may recommend follow-up scans or more detailed imaging based on the initial X-ray findings. Discussing these potential costs with your healthcare provider or the imaging center can help you anticipate fees and select the most cost-effective option to meet your medical needs.
Conclusion
The charges for X-ray procedures in Australia depend on multiple factors, but by understanding the average X-ray cost, you can make informed decisions about where to get your imaging done. Whether you're using Medicare or private health insurance, or paying out-of-pocket, knowing the potential costs can help you plan your healthcare expenses more effectively.
By comparing prices and exploring bulk-billing options, you can ensure that you get the care you need without overpaying.
