Tuberculosis (TB) is a potentially serious infection that primarily attacks the lungs, making testing and early detection crucial to preventing it from spreading.
The tuberculosis test price can vary based on whether you receive a skin test or a blood test, as well as where you live and who you see for testing. Let’s take a closer look at what might affect the price you pay.
TB Skin Test: What to Expect and How Much It Costs
A TB skin test, or Mantoux test, requires you to get a small injection of tuberculin under the skin of your forearm. Then, 48 to 72 hours later, you must return to the doctor’s office or clinic to have the injection site examined.
It’s important to return within that 48- to 72-hour window, since the test can’t be accurately read after that.
The price of a TB skin test can vary, depending on where you live and which clinic or provider you visit. As an example, the Utah County Health Department charges $25 for a TB skin test.
QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus Blood Test: Details and Price
The QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus test is a blood test that checks for TB. A healthcare professional will draw a sample of your blood, and it will be analyzed in a lab.
The blood test has a couple of advantages over the traditional skin test. You’ll only need to go in for one appointment, and the results aren’t affected by whether you’ve had the BCG vaccine in the past.
The price of the blood test can vary depending on the lab and your healthcare provider. At the Utah County Health Department, the QuantiFERON TB Gold Plus blood test costs $103.00. QuestHealth.com also offers lab tests, but the price of this particular test isn’t specified.
What influences the cost of TB testing?
The cost of TB testing can vary depending on a few factors.
Location and provider
The prices charged for TB tests can vary from state to state, city to city, and even from clinic to clinic. To get the most accurate information, check with your local healthcare providers.
Insurance coverage
Some health insurance plans cover TB testing, while others may require a co-pay or that you meet your yearly deductible. Before you get tested, contact your insurance company to confirm what portion of the cost you’ll be responsible for.
Student TB screening policies
If you’re a student, be aware that some schools require TB testing, particularly if you’re from a country with a high rate of TB. Students from countries with a TB incidence of 20 cases per 100,000 people or higher may be subject to specific testing requirements.
The Bottom Line
The price of a TB test depends on the type of test you get, where you get it, your insurance coverage, and any student health policies that apply to you.
If you need a TB test, be sure to do your research and compare prices. Contact local healthcare providers and your insurance company for accurate cost information.
Early detection and treatment are crucial for controlling the spread of TB, so getting tested is an important step in protecting public health.