MRIs used to cost thousands; but today, you can get one for a mere $75 – if you use Groupxx’s coupon (no, I won’t provide a link, that would encourage this behavior).
Today’s virtual in-basket had not one but two notes from colleagues about this fantastic offer, one where you can get an MRI AND a medical consultation, which normally goes for $250, for the tiny sum of $75.
For that, you get “the chance for one of those moments of clarity. We provide you with the opportunity to appreciate and better understand the inner intricacies of parts of your body such as your spine, your joints or your pelvis through an MRI scan.”
Wow, such a deal.
Of course, something could easily appear on that MRI which would lead to more treatment, more bills, and more revenue for the MRI’s owners and the docs doing the “diagnosing”.
Now, I don’t think this is all bad.
Insurers may use these ads as a way to get even lower rates from MRI vendors.
Claims adjusters may want to buy a couple dozen to sock away for that next rash of lower back injuries.
Self-insured employers may even now be getting out their credit cards to reserve a few slots for employees and dependents with undiagnosed musculoskeletal issues.
Isn’t the free market great?
Thanks to Gary Schwitzer and the unnamed colleague for the heads’ up…
Mar
19
You get what you pay for! A bad diagnosis that could cost you more than the clasim would have with clear, appropriate imaging.