How much does blood work cost?
How much does blood work cost?
$25 – $125 average self-pay cost (per test or panel)
Cost of blood work
The average cost for blood work without insurance is $25 to $125 per test or panel. The total cost of blood work varies based on the number of tests, the testing facility, and any doctor's office visit charges. With insurance, blood test costs depend on your policy and whether the test is medically necessary.
| Blood test | Average cost (without insurance) |
|---|---|
| Basic metabolic panel (BMP) | $25 – $80 |
| Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) | $40 – $50 |
| Complete blood count (CBC) | $25 – $125 |
| Cholesterol (Lipid) panel | $45 – $100 |
| Diabetes risk panel (HbA1c & cholesterol) | $90 – $105 |
| Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) | $40 – $75 |
| Testosterone test | $65 – $115 |
| Pregnancy test cost | $20 – $60 |
| STD test cost | $30 – $185 per STD tested |
| Allergy test cost | $200 – $1,000 |
Getting a blood panel or group of tests done together is usually cheaper than ordering individual blood tests one by one.
Basic metabolic panel (BMP)
A basic metabolic panel (BMP) blood test costs $25 to $80. This blood test measures various electrolytes and metabolites to evaluate kidney function and fluid balance. The panel typically includes tests for sodium, potassium, chloride, carbon dioxide, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and creatinine to determine if you are suffering from dehydration, diabetes, kidney problems, or electrolyte abnormalities.
Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP)
A comprehensive metabolic panel is an expanded version of the BMP that also checks liver enzymes, proteins, and additional kidney markers. This test costs $40 to $50 on average and can help your doctor determine if your liver is inflamed, infected with a virus, or functioning improperly.
Complete blood count (CBC)
A complete blood count costs $25 to $125 on average for a blood test that measures the concentration of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It provides information about a person's overall health and can help detect a wide range of conditions, such as anemia, infection, and leukemia.
Cholesterol (Lipid) panel
A lipid panel costs $45 to $100 and is used to test different types of cholesterol or fat molecules in your blood, including total cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, HDL (good) cholesterol, and triglycerides. These tests inform on the state of your metabolism and fat utilization to show your risk of chronic heart disease and guide treatment.
Diabetes risk panel (HbA1c & cholesterol)
A diabetes risk panel includes tests for hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and cholesterol and costs $45 to $100 on average. The HbA1c measures the average blood sugar level over the past 2 to 3 months to diagnose and monitor diabetes. The cholesterol tests assess the risk of heart disease, which is often elevated in people with diabetes.
Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)
A thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) test costs $40 to $75 and measures the level of TSH, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that regulates the thyroid gland. Doctors use this test to diagnose and monitor thyroid disorders, such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.
Testosterone test
A testosterone test measures the level of testosterone, a hormone produced primarily by the testicles in men and the ovaries in women. This blood test costs $65 to $115, and doctors use it to diagnose and monitor conditions related to testosterone levels, such as low testosterone, infertility, and polycystic ovary syndrome.
Pregnancy test cost
A pregnancy blood test costs $20 to $250, depending on the type of hCG blood test conducted. There are two main types of pregnancy blood tests:
Qualitative hCG blood test: This test costs $20 to $60 and gives a simple yes or no answer as to whether you are pregnant based on detecting any level of hCG.
Quantitative hCG (beta-hCG) blood test: This test costs $60 to $250 and measures the exact level of hCG in the blood. Rising hCG levels over time can confirm a healthy pregnancy.
Pregnancy blood tests are more accurate than urine pregnancy tests, as they can detect lower levels of hCG and confirm pregnancy earlier, around 7 to 10 days after conception.
STD test cost
STD testing costs $30 to $185 to test for a single STD or $125 to $400 for a multi-STD screening panel. The multi-screen panels vary but typically include testing for HIV, syphilis, Hepatitis B and C, chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes simplex virus, and HPV.
Allergy test cost
Allergy testing costs $200 to $1,000 for blood tests, not including the office visit costs. The total cost depends on the number of allergens the doctor tests for. Blood allergy tests look for immune system clues called IgE antibodies. High levels of these antibodies can indicate allergens triggering your allergy symptoms.
Blood test cost factors
The main factors affecting the cost of blood work are insurance coverage, the specific tests ordered, the testing location, and whether the tests are considered preventive or diagnostic.
Insurance coverage: If you have insurance, your out-of-pocket costs cover the copay or coinsurance. Without insurance, you'll have to pay the full cost.
For patients with insurance, routine or preventive blood tests not deemed medically necessary by a doctor may not be covered or may be subject to higher out-of-pocket costs.
To avoid additional charges, use an in-network laboratory for your blood work since out-of-network providers may not be covered by your insurance.
Number & type of tests: The more tests ordered, the higher the overall cost. Some common tests like a complete blood count (CBC) can cost $30 to $120, while more specialized tests can cost $100 to $700+.
Testing facility: Getting blood work done at a hospital or independent lab is typically more expensive than at an in-network lab or clinic. Using an out-of-network facility can also result in higher out-of-pocket costs.
Preventive vs. diagnostic tests: Preventive blood work is often fully covered by insurance, while diagnostic tests may be subject to deductibles and coinsurance.
Additional fees: There may be charges for the office visit, blood draw, lab processing, and other administrative costs.
Self-pay rates can occasionally be cheaper than insurance copays for blood tests. To find the best deal, get quotes from labs on self-pay pricing for the specific tests needed, and compare costs to your insurance coverage.
Blood work FAQs
Does Medicare cover blood work?
Medicare covers a wide range of medically necessary blood tests, but the specific coverage and costs depend on your plan and the reason for the testing. Consult with your doctor and Medicare plan to understand your specific coverage.
How long should you fast before blood work?
Certain blood tests require fasting for 8 to 12 hours, such as those measuring glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides. For most other blood tests, like those checking kidney, liver, thyroid function, or blood counts, fasting is not necessary.
How long does blood work take?
The blood draw itself is a relatively quick process that takes less than 10 minutes in most cases. The total time spent at the appointment may be longer to account for things like checking in, preparing the arm, and applying a bandage afterward. Scheduling an appointment for lab work can save time over walk-in appointments.
How long does it take to get blood work results back?
The turnaround time for getting blood test results back varies depending on the specific tests ordered. Most laboratories return routine blood test results to the doctor within 24 to 72 hours after the blood is drawn. More comprehensive tests like a complete metabolic panel can take up to 3 days to get results.
Where can I get blood work done?
You can get blood work by going to a lab for blood testing. The two major laboratory companies that offer blood testing are Labcorp and Quest Diagnostics, but smaller labs may be available in your area. Also, doctor’s offices, medical clinics, and hospitals may conduct blood testing services as part of their treatment.
Does cancer show up in blood work?
While blood tests can provide useful information, they cannot definitively diagnose cancer on their own. They are just one tool healthcare providers use as part of a comprehensive cancer evaluation.
Questions to ask your healthcare provider about blood work
Don’t be afraid to ask your healthcare provider these questions so you understand why blood tests are being ordered and what to expect:
Why are you ordering this blood test?
What steps are involved in the blood test?
Do I need to fast before this blood test?
How long will it take to get the results back? How will you notify me of the results?
What will we know about my health after getting these test results?
Are there any medications I'm taking, or allergies I have that could affect the blood test results?
How frequently do I need to get this type of blood work done?
If the results show any abnormalities, what will the next steps be in terms of treatment or further testing?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.