Question 1

Does Medicare cover CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Medicare Part B covers CT of the abdomen and pelvis with contrast (CPT 74177) when medically necessary — for evaluation of abdominal pain, cancer staging, post-surgical monitoring, or investigation of abnormal lab findings. Medicare pays 80% of the approved amount; you owe 20% after the $283 annual Part B deductible. Abdominal CT without contrast (CPT 74176) and without/with contrast (CPT 74178) are also covered when medically indicated.

Question 2

What is the Medicare cost for a CT abdomen and pelvis?

Accepted Answer

In 2026, the radiologist fee for CT abdomen/pelvis with contrast (CPT 74177) is approximately $68 nationally (your 20%: $14). The facility fee is $520 at an HOPD (your 20%: $104) or $350 at a freestanding imaging center (your 20%: $70). Total out-of-pocket at a freestanding center without Medigap: approximately $84. With Medigap Plan G: $0 after the $283 annual deductible. If contrast dye is used, you may also receive a separate bill for the contrast agent — typically small and covered at 80%.

Question 3

Does Medicare cover contrast-enhanced CT scans?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Medicare covers CT with contrast (CPT 74177 for abdomen/pelvis, CPT 71250 for chest) when medically necessary. The contrast agent itself (iodinated contrast) is billed as a supply by the facility and is typically included in the facility fee. If you have a contrast allergy or kidney disease requiring pre-treatment, the premedication (steroids, antihistamines) is covered as a separate Part B service. Gadolinium contrast for MRI is similarly covered when medically indicated.

Question 4

Why does this calculator show a different amount than Medicare.gov's cost estimate?

Accepted Answer

This calculator may show a higher number than Medicare.gov's "Patient Pays (average)" for several reasons: (1) Deductible timing — this calculator applies the $283 Part B annual deductible if it has not yet been met; Medicare.gov's average assumes many patients have already satisfied theirs. (2) Location adjustment — the radiologist's reading fee is adjusted by your region's Geographic Practice Cost Index (GPCI); in high-cost areas, reading fees run above the national rate. The facility fee is nationally fixed by CMS and should match Medicare.gov exactly. (3) Patient mix — Medicare.gov's "Patient Pays" average includes Medigap enrollees who pay $0 coinsurance, which pulls the reported average below what uninsured Original Medicare patients typically pay. No separate anesthesia bill applies to standard MRI or CT scans.

Cost Component	Medicare-Approved Amount	Your Share (20%)
Surgeon Fee — CT Abdomen & Pelvis (CPT 74177)	$300	$60
Hospital Outpatient (HOPD) Facility Fee	$356	$71
Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC) Facility Fee	$192	$38
Anesthesia (estimated)	none	20% of approved

Medicare CT Abdomen & Pelvis Cost 2026 | Out-of-Pocket Estimator

2026 Medicare Cost Summary — CT Abdomen & Pelvis (CPT 74177)

What Medicare Pays

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