Mri brain stem w/o & w/dye

What is CPT Code 70553?

MRI of the brain with contrast. More detailed than a CT, used to evaluate tumors, multiple sclerosis, stroke, infection, or complex neurological conditions. Contrast helps highlight abnormalities that may not be visible otherwise.

The Medicare reimbursement rate shown above is the amount the federal government has determined is a reasonable payment for this service. Hospitals and providers that participate in Medicare have agreed to accept these rates from Medicare patients.

Who typically bills this:Radiologist (interpretation) + hospital or imaging center (technical)

Common Billing Errors for CPT 70553

• !Billed alongside 70551 (without contrast) on the same date as two separate charges when a single with-and-without study (70553) was performed
• !Gadolinium contrast billed as a separate pharmacy charge on top of the MRI code
• !Interpretation billed by two radiologists (reading and over-reading) without clear documentation of separate work

Red Flags on Your Bill

Negotiation Tips for CPT 70553

1. 1The Medicare rate for 70553 is roughly $120–$160 physician; hospital chargemaster rates of $3,000–$8,000 are negotiable
2. 2Contrast agent (gadolinium) is typically bundled — a separate pharmacy charge for it is often a billing error
3. 3Outpatient imaging centers charge $500–$1,500 for the same brain MRI with contrast

Codes That Often Appear With This One

These CPT codes commonly appear on the same bill. Review each one to spot potential bundling errors or duplicate charges.

Found CPT 70553 on Your Bill?

If you see CPT code 70553 on a hospital or medical bill, compare the charged amount to the Medicare rate above. If your bill shows a significantly higher charge, you may have grounds to negotiate.

1. Note the amount charged for CPT 70553 on your itemized bill
2. Compare it to the Medicare rate above — calculate the markup
3. Call the billing department and use the Medicare rate as your anchor:“I see CPT code 70553 billed at [amount]. The Medicare rate for this procedure is $331.71. I'd like to discuss a fair adjustment.”