Receiving a prescription for a PET scan can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re worried about both your health and the cost. If you’re searching for information about PET scan cost in Morocco, you’re likely wondering: How much will this actually cost me? Where can I get it done? Will my insurance cover it?
Here’s what you need to know upfront: PET scan costs in Morocco range from 3,500 DH to 12,000 DH depending on the city, center, and type of equipment used. With proper insurance coverage (CNOPS, CNSS, or private mutuelle), your out-of-pocket cost typically drops to 1,500-4,000 DH.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to make an informed decision: exact prices by city, which centers offer the best value, how to maximize your insurance coverage, and what to do if you’re struggling with the cost.
Table of Contents
How Much Does a PET Scan Cost in Morocco?
The cost of a PET scan varies significantly depending on where you get it done and what type of technology the center uses.
PET Scan Prices by Major City
Casablanca offers the widest range of options:
- Budget centers: 3,500 – 6,000 DH (standard equipment)
- Mid-range centers: 7,000 – 9,000 DH (newer technology)
- Premium centers: 10,000 – 11,000 DH (latest digital PET-CT)
Rabat has more standardized pricing:
- Most centers: 7,500 – 10,500 DH
- Less variation due to fewer competing centers
Marrakech tends toward the higher end:
- Typical range: 8,500 – 12,000 DH
- Limited availability drives prices up
What’s Included in the PET Scan Price
When you pay for a PET scan in Morocco, the price covers:
- Radioactive tracer injection (FDG-18)
- Complete imaging scan (45-60 minutes)
- Professional interpretation by nuclear medicine specialist
- Detailed medical report
- CD/DVD with all scan images
- Follow-up consultation at some centers
Digital vs Standard PET-CT Equipment
Digital PET-CT scanners (9,000-12,000 DH):
- Sharper, clearer images
- Better at detecting very small tumors
- Faster scanning time
- Lower radiation dose
Standard PET-CT scanners (3,500-8,000 DH):
- Proven, reliable technology
- Excellent for most diagnostic needs
- Suitable for follow-up scans
- More affordable option
Expert insight: For routine cancer monitoring, standard PET-CT provides perfectly adequate results. Save the premium for cases where your oncologist specifically recommends enhanced detail.
Where to Get a PET Scan in Morocco
Casablanca PET Scan Centers
Casablanca has the highest concentration of facilities, giving patients more options.
| Center | Equipment | Price Range | Typical Wait |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cabinet Gandhi | Digital PET-CT | 10,000-11,000 DH | 1-2 weeks |
| Centre Le Littoral | Standard PET-CT | 7,000-8,500 DH | 2-3 weeks |
| Centre Anoual | Standard PET-CT | 6,500-8,000 DH | 1-2 weeks |
| Centre C016 | Standard PET-CT | 3,500-6,000 DH | 3-4 weeks |
Questions to ask when calling:
- “What is your current waiting time?”
- “Do you accept CNOPS/CNSS insurance?”
- “Is payment plan available?” (تقسيط متاح؟)
- “What documents do I need?”
Rabat PET Scan Centers
Clinique Agdal:
- Modern digital PET-CT
- Price: 9,500-10,500 DH
- Wait: 2-3 weeks
Rabat PET Scan Center:
- Standard PET-CT equipment
- Price: 7,500-8,500 DH
- Wait: 1-2 weeks
Marrakech Options
Limited availability with 1-2 major private centers:
- Price range: 8,500-12,000 DH
- Longer waiting times (3-5 weeks typical)
Can’t Find Appointments? Try These Strategies
- Call multiple centers simultaneously
- Ask about cancellation lists
- Consider less popular centers
- Be flexible with timing
- Have your oncologist make direct contact
Insurance Coverage: What You’ll Actually Pay
CNOPS Coverage
Reimbursement: 50-70% of approved tariff
Processing time: 2-4 weeks
Required documents:
- Original specialist prescription
- Official invoice from center
- Complete medical report
- CNOPS card and coverage certificate
- National ID card copy
Critical tip: Verify the CNOPS approved tariff before booking. You’re responsible for any amount above this.
CNSS Coverage
Reimbursement: 40-60% depending on plan
Pre-authorization: Required for some plans
Documents needed mirror CNOPS requirements.
Private Insurance (Mutuelle)
Most mutuelles cover 50-70% of remaining balance after CNOPS/CNSS.
Example calculation:
PET scan total: 10,000 DH
CNOPS (50%): -5,000 DH
Remaining: 5,000 DH
Mutuelle (70%): -3,500 DH
You pay: 1,500 DH
RAMED Patients
Reality: Most private centers don’t accept RAMED
Public option: CHU hospitals with 3-6 month waits
Better alternative: Charitable assistance programs
When Do You Need a PET Scan?
Cancer-Related Uses (85% of Cases)
Initial diagnosis and staging:
- Determining cancer spread
- Identifying lymph node involvement
- Finding distant metastases
- Planning treatment approach
Monitoring treatment:
- Evaluating chemotherapy effectiveness
- Assessing radiation response
- Deciding to continue or change treatment
Detecting recurrence:
- Finding returned cancer
- More sensitive than CT/MRI
- Distinguishing scar tissue from active tumor
Common cancers requiring PET scans:
- Lung cancer
- Lymphoma
- Colorectal cancer
- Breast cancer
- Melanoma
- Head and neck cancers
Neurological Conditions
- Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis
- Brain tumors
- Epilepsy evaluation
- Parkinson’s assessment
Who Can Prescribe PET Scans?
Only these specialists:
- Oncologists
- Neurologists
- Cardiologists
- Pneumologists
- Hematologists
General practitioners cannot prescribe PET scans.
How to Prepare for Your PET Scan
24 Hours Before
- Follow low-carb diet if recommended
- Avoid alcohol
- No strenuous exercise
- Stay well-hydrated
The 6-Hour Fasting Requirement
Mandatory fasting starts 6 hours before:
- No food of any kind
- No juice, soda, or sugary drinks
- No chewing gum
- Water is encouraged
Why it matters: The tracer is radioactive glucose. Recent food intake reduces tracer absorption, making scans inaccurate.
What to Bring
Documents:
- Original prescription
- National ID
- Insurance cards
- Previous scan results
- Medication list
Practical items:
- Comfortable clothing (no metal)
- Socks
- Snacks for after
- Book or phone for waiting
During Your Scan: Step by Step
Arrival (30 min): Check-in and paperwork
Prep (15 min): Medical questionnaire, blood sugar check
Injection (5 min): Tracer injection in arm
Waiting (45-60 min): Quiet rest, no movement
Scan (20-30 min): Lie still on table, machine moves around you
After: Drink water, resume normal activities
Getting Results
- Full report: 24-48 hours
- Schedule follow-up with your oncologist
- Don’t interpret results yourself
Can’t Afford a PET Scan? Financial Help
Payment Plans
Many centers offer 2-3 monthly installments with no interest. Ask when booking: “واش عندكم تقسيط؟”
Charitable Organizations
Lalla Salma Foundation:
- Financial assistance for diagnostics
- Apply through hospital social worker
- Partial to full coverage
Other organizations:
- AMMAIS
- Regional cancer associations
- Local community funds
Hospital Social Services
Every major hospital has social workers who:
- Explain assistance programs
- Complete paperwork
- Connect with organizations
- Arrange payment plans
- Help with RAMED applications
Access them through your physician or visit directly.
Community Support
- Mosque zakat funds for medical needs
- Neighborhood associations
- Online crowdfunding (Facebook groups)
- Workplace collections
Morocco vs. Abroad for PET Scans
Cost Comparison
| Location | Total Cost (with travel) |
|---|---|
| Morocco | 3,500-12,000 DH |
| France | 15,600-23,700 DH |
| Spain | 12,800-18,600 DH |
| Tunisia | 6,500-10,300 DH |
When to Travel Abroad
✓ All Moroccan centers fully booked (urgent case)
✓ Need specialized scan unavailable in Morocco
✓ Combining multiple procedures abroad
✓ Have premium insurance covering international care
When to Stay in Morocco
✓ Have CNOPS/CNSS/mutuelle coverage
✓ Routine staging or follow-up
✓ Travel is physically difficult
✓ Budget is tight
✓ Want local doctor accessibility
Quality reality: Moroccan centers have latest technology and Europe-trained specialists. Quality difference is negligible for standard diagnostics.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take?
Total: 2.5-3 hours at center. Plan for half a day.
Is it safe?
Yes. Radiation: 7-8 mSv (equals 2-3 years natural background). Not for pregnant/nursing women.
Can I eat before?
No. 6-hour fasting mandatory. Water allowed.
How accurate is it?
85-95% accurate for cancer detection. May miss very small tumors (under 5mm).
Do I stop cancer treatment?
Depends on treatment type. Follow your oncologist’s timing:
- Chemotherapy: Wait 2-4 weeks after
- Radiation: Wait 8-12 weeks after
- Never stop on your own
What if I’m claustrophobic?
PET scanners are open on both ends, less confining than MRI. Quick 20-30 minute scan. Sedation available if needed.
RAMED coverage?
Public hospitals accept RAMED but have 3-6 month waits. Better: seek charitable assistance for private center access.
When will I get results?
24-48 hours for written report. Your oncologist interprets findings.
PET vs CT scan difference?
- PET: Shows metabolic activity, detects cancer spread (8,000-12,000 DH)
- CT: Shows anatomy/structure (800-2,000 DH)
- PET-CT combines both
Can I drive after?
Yes, safe to drive. No sedation unless specially requested. Bring snacks (you’ll be hungry from fasting).
Your Step-by-Step Action Plan
Week 1: Get Prescription & Choose Center
Days 1-2:
- See specialist for PET scan prescription
- Ask which center they recommend
Days 3-4:
- Call 3-4 centers for prices and availability
- Compare options
Days 5-7:
- Verify insurance coverage
- Book appointment
- Confirm required documents
Week 2: Prepare & Scan
3 days before:
- Gather all documents
- Arrange transportation
- Request time off work
Night before:
- Light, low-carb dinner
- Set fasting alarm
- Prepare comfortable clothing
Scan day:
- Arrive 30 minutes early
- Follow technician instructions
- Drink water after
Week 3: Results & Next Steps
- Pick up report/CD
- Attend oncologist appointment
- Submit insurance claim
- Follow treatment plan
Conclusion
Key takeaways:
- PET scan costs 3,500-12,000 DH in Morocco
- Insurance typically covers 50-80%
- Quality centers in Casablanca, Rabat, Marrakech
- Simple preparation: fast 6 hours, bring documents
- Results ready in 24-48 hours
Don’t let cost prevent necessary diagnosis. Between insurance, payment plans, and charitable assistance, PET scans are accessible for most Moroccans who need them.
Need urgent help? Start calling centers today. Most accommodate urgent cancer cases within 1-2 weeks.
Medical Disclaimer: This guide provides general information and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for medical decisions. Prices and availability subject to change. Verify all information directly with centers before booking.