How Much Do Mammograms Cost?

What is a mammogram?

Mammography is an X-ray breast exam that uses radiation to create images of the areas inside the breast. Mammograms are the most effective tools for detecting breast cancer at any stage, including early stages when survival rates are highest: Those who find breast cancer at an early stage have a 98% survival rate, according to the CDC. 

A radiologist is trained to read mammograms, study the images, and look for signs of breast cancer. They interpret the results of the mammogram and share the information with the patient’s doctor. When to start breast cancer screening varies based on factors like age, health, and family history.

Costs of Mammograms

For uninsured patients the cost of a mammogram can range from $80 to $400 or more, averaging about $102, according to Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina. Some providers charge more, while others may offer an uninsured discount. Patients who book self-pay mammograms at Medmo can find cash-pay discounts, for example.

Insured patients will find mammograms are usually covered for women in the recommended age bracket, as many states require insurers to cover regular screening mammograms—usually after age 40. Some insurance plans require no out-of-pocket expenses for these scans, while others charge a co-pay.

Low-Cost or Free Programs

Patients who aren’t insured or don’t meet the criteria for their scans to be covered do have options.

• The Komen Breast Care Helpline at 1-877 GO KOMEN (1-877-465-6636) helps patients find low-cost screenings in their area.

• The National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program provides breast cancer screening test access to low-income, uninsured, and under-insured women who are ages 40 to 64. If a patient’s screening comes back with concerns, the group also provides access to further diagnostic testing and referrals to treatment if breast cancer is diagnosed. 

Why should I get a mammogram?

Nearly 288,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women in the U.S. this year, according to the American Cancer Society. And about 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime.

Fortunately, however, routine screening and diagnostic testing through mammograms can help doctors detect breast cancer early—before it spreads, which improves survival rates. Understanding the cost and value of breast cancer screening is critical to improving the accessibility of these scans.

To book a scan, visit us at Medmo.com. Medmo helps people schedule radiology imaging tests—such as MRI, CT scans, PET, and more—at nearby accredited centers and identify the payment solution that works best for them.