Quick answer: Without insurance, a routine screening mammogram in the U.S. usually costs $100–$300 at an imaging center, and a 3D mammogram adds about $50–$150. A diagnostic mammogram costs more, and hospitals charge more than independent centers. But many women never pay at all: screening mammograms are free with most insurance and Medicare, and a federal program offers free mammograms to many women without insurance.
Mammogram prices without insurance
These are typical 2026 self-pay ranges from public price guides.
| Exam | CPT code | Imaging center | Hospital outpatient |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screening mammogram, 2D | 77067 | $100–$300 | $250–$600 |
| 3D add-on (tomosynthesis) | 77063 | +$50–$150 | +$80–$250 |
| Diagnostic mammogram (one or both breasts) | 77065 / 77066 | $150–$500 | $300–$1,000 |
| Breast ultrasound | 76641 / 76642 | $150–$450 | $300–$700 |
For reference, Medicare’s 2026 national rate is about $126 for a screening mammogram and about $51 for the 3D add-on.
Screening vs. diagnostic: why the price is different
A screening mammogram is a routine check when you have no symptoms. It takes standard views of each breast, and a radiologist reads it later.
A diagnostic mammogram is done when there’s a symptom, such as a lump, or after an abnormal screening. It includes extra or magnified views, and a radiologist usually reviews the images while you’re there and may add an ultrasound. More time and more physician work mean a higher price, and with insurance, a diagnostic exam isn’t always free.
When a mammogram is free
- Most private insurance: Under the Affordable Care Act, non-grandfathered plans cover screening mammograms with no copay, coinsurance or deductible when you use an in-network provider. Coverage starts by age 40 to 50, every one to two years, depending on the guidelines your plan follows.
- New in 2026: follow-up tests. For plan years starting on or after December 20, 2025, these plans must also cover, with no cost sharing, the additional imaging and biopsy needed to complete the screening after an abnormal mammogram, plus patient navigation services.
- Medicare: Part B covers one screening mammogram every 12 months for women 40 and older, and one baseline mammogram between 35 and 39. You pay nothing if your provider accepts assignment. Diagnostic mammograms are covered, but you pay 20% after the Part B deductible.
- Medicaid: All state Medicaid programs cover screening mammograms, though the details vary by state.
Free mammograms if you don’t have insurance
The CDC’s National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP) provides free or low-cost mammograms in every state. You may qualify if:
- You have no insurance, or your insurance doesn’t cover screening.
- Your income is at or below 250% of the federal poverty level.
- You’re 40 to 64 years old. Some younger or older women may also qualify.
If a cancer is found, the program can help connect you to treatment and, in many states, to Medicaid. To find your local program, visit the CDC’s «Find a Screening Program Near You» page or call 1-800-232-4636.
Other options include community health centers, hospital mobile mammography vans, free screening days (often in October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month) and nonprofit breast health programs.
How to pay less if you’re paying yourself
- Ask for the self-pay price for the exact code (2D, 3D or diagnostic). Some centers have a flat cash price.
- Choose an independent imaging center or breast center over a hospital outpatient department, if appropriate for you.
- Ask whether 3D costs extra. Some centers include it at no added charge.
- Ask for a Good Faith Estimate. If your bill is $400 or more above it, you can dispute it (cms.gov/nosurprises, 1-800-985-3059).
- Ask about financial assistance at nonprofit hospitals.
From the scanner room
[TU EXPERIENCIA: diferencia real en sala entre cribado y diagnóstica (tiempo, proyecciones, presencia del radiólogo); qué dicen las pacientes cuando les llaman para pruebas adicionales y les preocupa el coste.]
Tips from the technologist
- Make sure it’s booked as a screening if you have no symptoms. The way it’s ordered and coded decides whether it’s free.
- Tell us about any symptoms anyway. A new lump or nipple discharge needs a diagnostic exam, whatever it costs. Don’t hide symptoms to keep it «free.»
- Bring or send your prior mammograms. Comparison can prevent unnecessary callbacks.
- Ask your plan about follow-up tests before you schedule them, especially in 2026, when coverage rules changed.
FAQ
Is a mammogram free with insurance?
A screening mammogram usually is, with an in-network provider and a non-grandfathered plan. A diagnostic mammogram may have a copay or coinsurance, although many plans must now cover follow-up imaging after an abnormal screening at no cost.
How much does a 3D mammogram cost without insurance?
Usually about $50–$150 more than a 2D mammogram at an imaging center, so roughly $150–$450 in total.
Why was I charged for my mammogram?
Common reasons are that it was coded as diagnostic, the facility was out-of-network, your plan is grandfathered or you had extra services the same day. Ask your insurer and the facility to check the coding.
Where can I get a free mammogram?
Through the CDC’s NBCCEDP if you qualify, community health centers, mobile mammography programs and free screening events. Call 1-800-232-4636 to find a program.
At what age should I start getting mammograms?
The USPSTF recommends screening every two years from age 40 to 74 for women at average risk. Other groups recommend yearly screening. Talk to your doctor about what’s right for you.
This article is for general information only and is not medical, legal or financial advice. Prices and coverage rules change. Talk to your doctor, the imaging facility and your insurance plan about your situation.
Sources
- CDC. National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program: Find a Screening Program Near You.
- HRSA. Women’s Preventive Services Guidelines (updated December 2024).
- HealthCare.gov. Preventive care benefits for women.
- Medicare.gov. Mammograms coverage.
- USPSTF. Breast Cancer: Screening (2024).
- CMS. No Surprises Act: Good Faith Estimates (cms.gov/nosurprises).
- RadiologyInfo.org (ACR/RSNA). Mammography patient page.
- CareRoute. Mammogram cost 2026; CPT 77067 and 77063 pages (September 2026).