How Much Does A Tuberculosis Test Cost?

Last Updated on June 4, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

Tuberculosis (TB) is a concerning infectious disease that mainly affects the lungs and can spread through the air when someone with an active infection coughs or sneezes. Testing for TB is critical for containing its transmission and ensuring prompt treatment if positive. But how much should you expect to pay for this important screening?

This comprehensive guide examines typical costs for TB testing, factors impacting pricing, insurance coverage specifics, where to find affordable options and more.

How Much Does A Tuberculosis Test Cost?

The out-of-pocket cost for a tuberculosis skin test or blood test can vary widely but generally ranges from $20 to $300. On the lower end, a TB skin test may cost $20-$50 at a community health clinic or public health department. Average costs are around $75-$150 at primary care offices, retail clinics, or urgent care centers.

TB blood tests or hospital screening typically falls between $100-$300. With health insurance, costs are often just a copay of $20-$50 depending on coverage. Uninsured patients face the full price but can seek testing from low-cost clinics.

LD Health provides detailed information on the cost of TB tests, stating that the fee for a TB skin test is $30. TB skin tests are administered at the Health Department every day of the week except Thursdays.

Blood testing for TB screening also is available at a cost of $71. The blood test is primarily recommended for anyone born in a foreign country or who has received BCG vaccination.

University Health Service (UHS) at the University of Michigan offers TB testing at a cost of $32. The skin test is available weekdays except Thursday, and you will need to return in person 48-72 hours after the test to have your arm examined to evaluate the results.

MDsave provides estimates of TB skin test costs near you, with prices starting at $38.

GOV.UK lists the cost of TB tests at various clinics in the US, including:

• Expresscare Medical Clinic in Los Angeles, CA: $130 US dollars
• Manhattan Family Practice in New York, NY: $325 USD for those 11 years and above, $100 USD for those below 11 years
• Executive Health Services in Philadelphia, PA: $125.00 for the exam, $169.00 for the chest x-ray, and $175.00 for the sputum test (refundable deposit if the sputums are negative)

Types of TB Tests and Methodologies

There are two primary types of TB screening tests currently used. Each has different cost implications.

Tuberculin Skin Test (TST)

Also known as the Mantoux tuberculin skin test, this is the more widely used and longstanding screening method. It involves injecting a small amount of fluid called tuberculin into the inner forearm.

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The area must then be checked for any induration (a palpable hard swelling) by a trained provider between 48-72 hours later. Presence of a hardened welt of a certain size indicates an immune reaction suggestive of TB infection. Tuberculin skin tests typically range from $30 to $100 depending on the location.

Blood Tests (IGRAs)

Interferon-gamma release assays (IGRAs) are TB blood tests that measure your immune system’s response to TB bacteria when your blood is mixed with TB proteins in a lab. The QuantiFERON-TB Gold test is one example.

These TB blood tests provide results more rapidly but also utilize advanced laboratory analysis, so they tend to cost $100 to $250 or more.

Factors Affecting the Cost of TB Testing

Several factors play a role in determining the price you can expect to pay for TB screening.

Type of Test Used

The basic materials cost for blood tests is higher than skin tests. Blood tests also require more sophisticated labs to analyze results. This means IGRAs are inherently more expensive.

Healthcare Setting Where Performed

Hospitals and urgent care centers charge premium rates for services compared to community health clinics and health departments. Facility fees impact pricing.

Geographic Location

The cost of living and overhead costs for clinics and labs in major urban areas like Los Angeles or New York City make prices for all healthcare services 25-50% higher than rural areas typically.

Credentials of Person Administering Test

Tests carried out by higher cost providers like doctors or nurses are more expensive than having a trained technician conduct the test.

Use of Medical Insurance

The uninsured pay full sticker prices which are typically 2-3x higher than insured rates. Having coverage brings costs down to any applicable copays or coinsurance percentages.

TB Test Cost Breakdown by Facility

Here are typical price ranges you can expect to encounter at different types of healthcare facilities:

Local Community Health Clinics – Sliding scale fees based on documented income ranging from $0 up to $100 for TB testing.

Hospitals and Hospital Labs – Hospital-based outpatient lab screening costs from $150 to $400+.

Urgent Care Centers and Labs – Premium pricing but faster turnaround, ranging from $200 to $300+.

County Public Health Departments – Counties provide free or very low-cost TB tests, often just $20 to $75.

Retail Clinics at Pharmacies – Pharmacies and retailers now offer TB tests for $75 to $150 through on-site clinics.

Insurance Coverage – If you have health insurance, TB screening is covered as an essential preventive service, often at low or no cost.

Verifying Individual Plan Coverage – While most plans cover TB testing, verify your specific benefits and in-network labs/clinics. Testing authorization may be required.

Estimating Out-of-Pocket Costs – Any copay or coinsurance fees will apply, but preventive screening is often $0 cost after deductible. This still leaves labs and clinician fees.

Leveraging Health Savings Accounts – If enrolled in an HSA, you can pay for TB testing tax-free using your HSA debit card.

Financial Assistance to Cover Testing Costs – Uninsured individuals can utilize public health programs, clinics, or non-profit groups providing free or discounted TB screening.

Potential Travel Vaccination Coverage – Some travel insurance plans cover medically necessary testing like TB screening when related to upcoming trips.

Comparing Prices

It pays to compare TB test costs across providers and utilize online price transparency tools.

Average National Costs – The typical price for a TB test nationally runs from $100 to $200 on average. Prices as low as $50 and as high as $500 exist.

Variances Across Different States – For example, the average cost in California is $225 compared to $150 in Florida due to overhead differences.

Searching for Low or No-Cost Testing – County health departments, community clinics, and non-profit groups provide more affordable options for uninsured patients.

Importance of Accessible TB Testing

Routine screening of at-risk groups protects broader community health.

Earlier Diagnosis and Treatment

Catching TB infections early through testing allows for faster treatment initiation, which better prevents transmission.

Improved Clinical Outcomes

Detecting TB before symptoms appear through screening provides simpler treatment options with better prognosis.

Enables Better Public Health Monitoring

Accessible testing also facilitates tracking of TB prevalence and concentrating resources effectively.

Final Words

The out-of-pocket cost for TB screening can range quite substantially based on facility, location, insurance coverage, and other variables. But resources exist to help you access this vital test affordably if you are at elevated risk.

Seeking out health departments, clinics, community testing days, and financial assistance programs can aid in obtaining needed screening at minimal or no cost in many cases. If you require TB testing, do not let expense alone stand in the way of this important health safeguarding measure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should you do a TB test?

For people with risk factors like a weakened immune system, close TB contact, birth or travel in endemic regions, or work in healthcare, the CDC recommends getting tested annually. Those with a previous positive TB test typically just need one follow up check, either on hire for healthcare roles or before starting school.

What not to do after a TB test?

Avoid getting the TB test site wet for 24-72 hours, do not scratch or otherwise irritate the area, and avoid vigorous exercise or activities that could alter blood flow after your test. Also avoid using lotions, creams or bandages on the injection site.

Can I workout after a TB test?

Avoid strenuous exercise for the first 24 hours following TB testing. Light exercise is fine but keep the test site covered with clothing and be very careful not to bump or put pressure on the area for 1-3 days.