Cost-Comparing medical services

So recently I had a referral to get some medical tests done (MRI). My doctor sent my records over to XYZ Radiology, put in the order for the type of scans he wanted, and asked me to call to schedule a convenient time. Before I had a chance to schedule anything, my insurance called me and said they wanted to inform me that there were other radiology offices with lower prices. All of the locations they gave me, including the one my doctor set me up with, were in-network and covered exactly the same.

So, I'm curious whether you'd try to schedule with a less expensive location or go with the location your doctor already setup for you.

Should cost be a decision factor in getting medical services? Would it depend on the type of services (brain surgery vs blood draw)?

Do you think the insurance company is right/wrong to intervene? Is it keeping patients informed or is it undermining the medical practices they have a relationship with?