CT Scan Costs Australia 2025: Prices, Medicare Rebates & Where to Save"
Worried about the cost of your upcoming CT scan? You're not alone. With Australian healthcare costs rising, many patients are shocked to discover they'll pay $100-$400 out-of-pocket for CT scans, even with Medicare coverage.
The good news? Understanding the system can save you hundreds of dollars. CT scan costs vary dramatically across Australia depending on your location, the type of scan, and whether you qualify for bulk billing.
In this complete 2025 pricing guide, you'll discover:
Exact CT scan costs by body part and location across Australia
How to maximize your Medicare rebate (up to $195 for spine scans)
Which imaging centers offer bulk billing and payment plans
Money-saving strategies that could cut your costs by 50%
Why physiotherapists can refer you directly (saving GP visit fees)
Whether you need a brain, chest, or musculoskeletal CT scan, this guide reveals everything you need to know about Australian CT scan pricing—so you can focus on your health, not your wallet.
CT Scan Costs Australia: Quick Answer (2025 Updated)
💰 Average Out-of-Pocket Cost: $100-$400 (varies by scan type)
🏥 Medicare Rebate Range: $40-$195, depending on body part
🎯 Bulk Billing Availability: 30-40% of scans (location dependent)
📍 Cheapest Options: Public hospitals ($50-$100), bulk-billing clinics
📈 Most Expensive: Private hospitals ($200-$400)
⏰ 2025 Update: Prices increased 5-8% from 2024, and more telehealth consultations are available
What Affects Your CT Scan Cost?
Body part being scanned (brain scans often bulk-billed, spine scans $100-$150)
Location (Sydney/Melbourne 20-30% more expensive than regional areas)
Imaging centre type (private vs public vs bulk-billing clinic)
Urgency (emergency scans are often fully covered)
Referring practitioner (some specialists get better rebates)
Time of day (some centres offer off-peak discounts)
Complete CT Scan Pricing by Body Part (2025 Rates)
The following costs are based on current Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) rates and typical charges for imaging centres across Australia.
Head & Neck Scans
Brain CT (Non-contrast)
• Medicare Item: 56001
• Medicare Rebate: $82.15
• Typical Out-of-Pocket: $0-$50 (often bulk-billed in emergencies)
• Private Cost: $150-$250
• Common Reasons: Head injuries, headaches, stroke assessment
Brain CT (With Contrast)
• Medicare Item: 56003
• Medicare Rebate: $123.20
• Typical Out-of-Pocket: $50-$100
• Private Cost: $200-$350
• Common Reasons: Tumour detection, detailed brain imaging
Cervical Spine CT
• Medicare Item: 56215
• Medicare Rebate: $185.90
• Typical Out-of-Pocket: $100-$150
• Private Cost: $250-$400
• Common Reasons: Neck pain, whiplash, disc problems
Chest Scans
Chest CT (Standard)
• Medicare Item: 56101
• Medicare Rebate: $123.20
• Typical Out-of-Pocket: $100-$200
• Private Cost: $300-$500
• Common Reasons: Lung problems, chest pain, cancer screening
High-Resolution Chest CT
• Medicare Item: 56113
• Medicare Rebate: $185.90
• Typical Out-of-Pocket: $150-$250
• Private Cost: $400-$600
• Common Reasons: Detailed lung assessment, occupational lung disease
Spine & Musculoskeletal Scans
Lumbar Spine CT
• Medicare Item: 56223
• Medicare Rebate: $195.45 (highest rebate)
• Typical Out-of-Pocket: $100-$150
• Private Cost: $250-$400
• Common Reasons: Back pain, disc herniation, sciatica
Thoracic Spine CT
• Medicare Item: 56219
• Medicare Rebate: $185.90
• Typical Out-of-Pocket: $100-$150
• Private Cost: $250-$400
• Common Reasons: Mid-back pain, fractures
Pelvis CT
• Medicare Item: 56301
• Medicare Rebate: $123.20
• Typical Out-of-Pocket: $150-$250
• Private Cost: $300-$500
• Common Reasons: Hip problems, pelvic fractures
Joint-Specific CT (Knee, Shoulder, etc.)
• Medicare Item: Various
• Medicare Rebate: $82.15-$123.20
• Typical Out-of-Pocket: $100-$200
• Private Cost: $200-$350
• Common Reasons: Sports injuries, arthritis assessment
Abdominal Scans
Abdomen CT
• Medicare Item: 56201
• Medicare Rebate: $123.20
• Typical Out-of-Pocket: $150-$300
• Private Cost: $400-$700
• Common Reasons: Abdominal pain, organ assessment
Abdomen & Pelvis CT (Combined)
• Medicare Item: 56207
• Medicare Rebate: $185.90
• Typical Out-of-Pocket: $200-$350
• Private Cost: $500-$800
• Common Reasons: Comprehensive abdominal imaging
10 Proven Ways to Reduce Your CT Scan Costs
1. Target Bulk-Billing Centres
What it saves: $100-$300 per scan
How to find them: • Call imaging centres directly and ask about bulk-billing policies • Check HealthEngine or HotDoc for bulk-billing filters • Ask your GP/physio for bulk-billing referrals • Public hospital imaging departments often bulk-bill
Bulk-billing hotspots by city: • Sydney: Liverpool, Bankstown, Blacktown areas • Melbourne: Dandenong, Frankston, northern suburbs • Brisbane: Logan, Ipswich, Caboolture • Perth: Armadale, Rockingham, Joondalup • Adelaide: Elizabeth, Salisbury, northern suburbs
2. Get Direct Physiotherapist Referrals
What it saves: $50-$100 (GP consultation fee)
How it works: • Physiotherapists can refer for musculoskeletal CT scans • No need for separate GP visit • Physio often has a better understanding of what scan is needed • Can be done same-day at physio appointment.
Best for: Spine, joint, and sports injury scans
At Evolutio, our experienced physiotherapists can provide direct referrals for musculoskeletal CT scans.Please bookk a consultation with our team to discuss your imaging needs and save on referral costs.
3. Compare Imaging Centre Prices
What it saves: $50-$150 per scan
Price comparison example (Lumbar spine CT in Melbourne): • I-MED Radiology: $120 out-of-pocket • Capitol Health: $100 out-of-pocket • Lumus Imaging: $110 out-of-pocket • Melbourne Radiology: $95 out-of-pocket • Public hospital: $50-$80 out-of-pocket
Pro tip: Always ask for the exact out-of-pocket cost before booking
4. Choose Public Hospital Imaging
What it saves: $50-$200 per scan
Considerations: • Longer waiting times (1-4 weeks for non-urgent) • Often bulk-billed or heavily subsidised • Same quality equipment and radiologists • Best for non-urgent scans
How to access: Get a referral specifying "public hospital preferred"
5. Ask About Payment Plans
What it saves: Immediate cash flow relief
Options available: • Interest-free payment plans (3-12 months) • Zip Pay/Afterpay at some centres • Medical finance through MacCredit or Zip Medical • Credit card payment plans
6. Check Your Private Health Insurance
What it saves: $50-$200 per scan
Coverage levels: • Basic extras: Usually no CT scan coverage • Mid-level extras: May cover $50-$100 • Top extras: Can cover $100-$200 • Hospital cover: May cover if done as an inpatient
Always check: Annual limits and waiting periods
7. Time Your Scan Strategically
What it saves: $20-$50 per scan
Off-peak discounts: • Some centres offer 10-15% discounts for early morning slots • End-of-day appointments are sometimes discounted • Mid-week appointments may be cheaper than weekends
8. Bundle Multiple Scans
What it saves: $50-$100 when multiple areas are needed
How it works: • Some centres offer package deals for multiple body parts • Combined scans (like abdomen + pelvis) are more cost-effective than separate • Ask about "add-on" pricing if a second area is needed
9. Use Telehealth for Referrals
What it saves: $30-$50 (travel + parking costs)
How it works: • Many GPs and physios now offer telehealth consultations • Can provide referrals electronically • Eliminates travel costs to get a referral • Often shorter waiting times
10. Ask About Student/Pensioner Discounts
What it saves: 10-20% of total cost
Who qualifies: • Full-time students with valid ID • Pensioners with concession cards • Healthcare workers (some centers) • Seniors (65+) at participating locations
Always ask: Many centres don't advertise these discounts
CT Scan Costs by Australian State & Territory (2025)
New South Wales
Average out-of-pocket: $120-$300
Cheapest areas: Western Sydney, Wollongong, Newcastle
Most expensive: North Shore, Eastern Suburbs
Bulk-billing rate: 35-40%
Top bulk-billing centres: Liverpool Hospital, Blacktown Hospital
Victoria
Average out-of-pocket: $100-$280
Cheapest areas: Frankston, Dandenong, Geelong
Most expensive: Toorak, South Yarra, Brighton
Bulk-billing rate: 40-45%
Top bulk-billing centres: Monash Health, Northern Health
Queensland
Average out-of-pocket: $90-$250
Cheapest areas: Logan, Ipswich, Cairns
Most expensive: Gold Coast, Brisbane CBD
Bulk-billing rate: 45-50%
Top bulk-billing centres: Metro South Health, Gold Coast Health
Western Australia
Average out-of-pocket: $110-$270
Cheapest areas: Armadale, Rockingham, Mandurah
Most expensive: Subiaco, Cottesloe, Nedlands
Bulk-billing rate: 30-35%
Top bulk-billing centres: Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital
South Australia
Average out-of-pocket: $100-$260
Cheapest areas: Elizabeth, Salisbury, Mount Gambier
Most expensive: Adelaide Hills, Unley
Bulk-billing rate: 40-45%
Top bulk-billing centres: Flinders Medical Centre
Tasmania
Average out-of-pocket: $80-$220
Generally cheaper: Due to lower overhead costs
Bulk-billing rate: 50-55% (highest in Australia)
Main centres: Royal Hobart Hospital, Launceston General Hospital
Australian Capital Territory
Average out-of-pocket: $110-$290
Limited options: Fewer imaging centres = higher prices
Bulk-billing rate: 25-30%
Main centres: Canberra Hospital, Calvary Hospital
Northern Territory
Average out-of-pocket: $70-$200
Heavily subsidised: Due to remote location subsidies
Bulk-billing rate: 60-65%
Main centres: Royal Darwin Hospital, Alice Springs Hospital
CT Scan Alternatives: When to Consider Other Options
Understanding when alternative imaging might be more cost-effective can save you hundreds of dollars while still getting the diagnostic information you need.
MRI vs CT Scan
When MRI might be better: • Soft tissue problems (muscles, ligaments, cartilage) • Spinal disc issues • Joint problems • No radiation exposure needed
Cost comparison: • CT scan: $100-$400 out-of-pocket • MRI: $200-$600 out-of-pocket • MRI often better value for soft tissue problems
Learn more about MRI costs in our comprehensive guide: "How Much Does an MRI Cost in Australia?"
Ultrasound vs CT Scan
When ultrasound works: • Tendon injuries • Muscle tears • Some abdominal issues • Real-time movement assessment
Cost comparison: • CT scan: $100-$400 • Ultrasound: $50-$150 • Much cheaper but limited scope
Read our detailed ultrasound cost breakdown: "How Much Does an Ultrasound Cost in Australia?"
X-ray vs CT Scan
When X-ray is sufficient: • Bone fractures • Joint alignment • Basic spine assessment • Chest infections
Cost comparison: • CT scan: $100-$400 • X-ray: $20-$80 • Significantly cheaper for simple bone issues
For more information on X-ray costs, see: "How Much Does an X-Ray Cost in Australia?"
Who Can Refer You for a CT Scan?
Understanding who can refer you for a CT scan can save you time and money. According to Medicare regulations, CT scans are only eligible for Medicare rebates when referred by registered health professionals.
Medical Professionals
• General Practitioners (GPs): Can refer for any CT scan • Medical specialists: Neurologists, orthopedic surgeons, etc. • Emergency doctors: For urgent scans • Nurse practitioners: With appropriate qualifications
Allied Health Professionals
• Physiotherapists: Can refer for musculoskeletal scans (spine, joints) • Chiropractors: Limited scope, mainly spine-related • Podiatrists: For foot and ankle scans • Dentists: For dental and facial scans
Pro tip: For musculoskeletal issues, obtaining a referral directly from your physiotherapist can save you the cost of a separate GP consultation fee ($50-$100).
Evolutio's Expert Team Can Help
Our experienced physiotherapists are qualified to refer for CT scans and can help you navigate the system:
• Alex Drew - Founder and Senior Physiotherapist with 14+ years experience • Phill Danzi - Specialist in sports injuries and ACL rehabilitation, Western Bulldogs AFL Women's Team physio • Bayden Smith - Co-clinic director with 9+ years experience in complex injuries • Gemma Mollenhauer - Cycling specialist and national-level cyclist • Catya Vezzoli - Carlton FC physio specialising in contact sport injuries
Please book a consultation with our team to discuss your CT scan needs and get expert advice on the most cost-effective imaging options.
Frequently Asked Questions About CT Scan Costs
Can I get a CT scan without a referral?
No, you cannot get a Medicare rebate for a CT scan without a referral from a registered health practitioner. According to Medicare guidelines, CT services are not eligible for rebates unless performed under proper professional supervision. However, you can pay privately (typically $400-$800) for a scan without a referral, but this will not be eligible for any Medicare rebate.
How long do I have to wait for a CT scan?
Waiting times vary significantly: • Emergency scans: Immediate to 2 hours • Urgent scans: 24-48 hours • Semi-urgent: 1-2 weeks • Routine scans: 1-4 weeks • Public hospitals: 2-6 weeks for non-urgent
What's the difference between Medicare rebate and out-of-pocket cost?
• Medicare rebate: The amount Medicare pays back to you • Imaging centre fee: What the centre charges • Out-of-pocket: Imaging centre fee minus Medicare rebate • Example: Centre charges $300, Medicare rebates $195, you pay $105 out-of-pocket
Are there any hidden costs with CT scans?
Potential additional costs include: • Contrast dye: May add $50-$100 • Sedation: $100-$200 if required • Parking: $5-$20 at most imaging centers • CD/USB copies: $10-$30 • Rush reporting: $50-$100 for same-day results.
Can I claim the costs of CT scan on my taxes?
Yes, under certain circumstances, according to Australian Taxation Office guidelines: • Out-of-pocket medical expenses over $2,000 annually • Must be for yourself or dependents • Keep all receipts and Medicare statements • Consult a tax professional for specific advice.
Do CT scan costs vary by time of day?
Some imaging centres offer: • Early morning discounts: 10-15% off before 8 AM • Late evening rates: 5-10% off after 6 PM • Weekend surcharges: 10-20% extra on weekends • Public holiday fees: 25-50% surcharge.
What if I can't afford my CT scan?
Options for financial assistance: • Payment plans: Most centres offer interest-free options • Charity care: Some hospitals have hardship programs • Medical loans: Zip Medical, MacCredit • Delayed billing: Ask to spread payments over time • Public hospital: Often cheaper, longer wait times
How accurate are online CT scan cost estimates?
Online estimates are often: • 10-30% lower than actual costs • Don't include contrast or additional fees • Based on Medicare rates, not actual charges • Vary by location significantly • Always call for an accurate quote.s
Can I negotiate CT scan prices?
Some centres may offer: • Package deals for multiple scans • Prompt payment discounts (5-10%) • Loyalty discounts for repeat patients • Financial hardship considerations • Match competitor pricing in some cases.
What is a CT Scan and When Do You Need One?
A CT scan (computed tomography scan) is a medical imaging technique that uses X-rays and computer processing to create detailed cross-sectional images of your body. It provides clear, comprehensive views of internal structure,s including organs, bones, blood vessels, and soft tissues.
How CT Scans Work
During a CT scan, you lie on a table that moves through a doughnut-shaped machine called a CT scanner. The scanner emits narrow X-ray beams that rotate around your body, capturing multiple cross-sectional images from different angles. A computer processes these images to create detailed, 3-dimensional pictures that radiologists caanalyseze.
Common Reasons for CT Scans
CT scans are used to diagnose various medical conditions: • Injuries: Fractures, internal bleeding, trauma assessment • Infections: Pneumonia, abscesses, inflammatory conditions • Tumours: Cancer detection and monitoring • Abnormalities: Organ function, structural problems • Guidance: For medical procedures and biopsie.s
Benefits of CT Scans
• Speed: Quick imaging, valuable in emergencies • Detail: High-resolution images of internal structures • Versatility: Can image any part of the body • Guidance: Helps guide surgical and diagnostic procedures
Radiation Considerations
CT scans do involve exposure tionisingng radiation, so healthcare providers take precautions tminimiseze exposure, especially for children and pregnant women. The benefits typically outweigh the risks when the treatment is medically necessary. For more information on radiation safety, visit the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA).
Comparing Medical Imaging Costs
To help you understand the full spectrum of diagnostic imaging costs, here's how CT scans compare to other standard medical imaging options:
Imaging Type Average Cost Medicare Rebate Best For CT Scan $100-$400 $40-$195 Bones, organs, emergency MRI $200-$600 $0-$375* Soft tissues, joints Ultrasound $50-$150 Varies Tendons, pregnancy X-ray $20-$80 $30-$50 Bones, chest Cortisone Injection $240-$365 $125 Joint inflammation
*MRI rebates only apply when referred by specialists in certain circumstances
Related Healthcare Costs You Should Know
Understanding the broader context of healthcare costs can help you budget effectively:
• Physiotherapy Session Costs: $100-$175 for initial consultations • Treatment Prices at Evolutio: Comprehensive pricing for all services • ACL Rehabilitation: Learn about ACL rehab costs and timelines • Sports Physio Services: Melbourne sports physiotherapy pricing and packages
Conclusion: Getting the Best Value for Your CT Scan
Understanding CT scan costs in Australia doesn't have to be complicated. With the proper knowledge, you can save hundreds of dollars while still getting the high-quality imaging you need for your health.
Key takeaways: • Shop around: Prices vary significantly between providers • Consider bulk-billing options: Can save $100-$300 per scan • Use direct referrals: Physiotherapists can refer for musculoskeletal scans • Check public hospitals: Often the cheapest option for non-urgent scans • Ask about discounts: Many centers offer concessions not widely advertised
Remember, the cheapest option isn't always the best. Consider factors like waiting times, convenience, and the quality of reporting when making your decision.
Expert CT Scan Referrals at Evolutio
At Evolutio, our experienced physiotherapists can provide direct referrals for musculoskeletal CT scans, ofteneliminating the need foru a separate GP visit. Our team includes:
• Specialists in sports medicine with 8- 15+ years experience • Direct referral capabilities for spine and joint CT scans • Partnerships with cost-effective imaging centres like Lumus Imaging • Comprehensive rehabilitation programs following your scan results
We're conveniently located in Richmond, Melbourne, and offer both face-to-face and telehealth consultations.
Ready to get expert advice on your CT scan needs? Please book a consultation with our team today. We'll help you navigate the system, find the most cost-effective imaging options, and develop a treatment plan based on your results.
Contact Evolutio: 📍 Richmond, Melbourne
📞 Book online or call for appointments
💬 Learn more about our team and specialties
This guide is updated regularly to reflect current Australian healthcare pricing. Last updated: 2025. Always confirm costs directly with imaging providers before booking your scan. For specific medical advice, consult with a qualified healthcare professional.
Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Costs mentioned are estimates and may vary. Always consult with healthcare providers and imaging centres for current pricing and medical guidance.
