eli5: if an operational cost of an MRI scan is $50-75, why does it cost up to $3500 to a patient?

Question

Explain like I’m European.

In: Other

Answer 1

The machine itself can cost $1 million, so it takes quite awhile to pay that initial cost off. But the cost also includes the cost of the contrast dye they use, administrative staff, nurses, the medical personnel who interpret the results of the scan, and any number of other things. That certainly all adds up to more than $50-75.

It’s also because the American healthcare system is for profit. Any opportunity to get more money will be exploited.