How Much Is a TB Test at Urgent Care?

A tuberculosis (TB) test helps determine if an individual has been exposed to the bacteria that causes this infectious disease. People often seek TB testing for various reasons, including employment, school enrollment, travel, or potential exposure. Urgent care centers provide a convenient option for obtaining these tests, offering accessible services without requiring a prior appointment.

Types of TB Tests

Two primary methods are used for tuberculosis testing: the Tuberculin Skin Test (TST), also known as the Mantoux test or PPD, and Interferon Gamma Release Assays (IGRAs). The TST involves injecting a small amount of tuberculin, a protein derivative, just under the skin of the forearm. Individuals must return within 48 to 72 hours for a healthcare provider to examine the injection site. A raised, firm area indicates a positive result, suggesting exposure to TB bacteria.

IGRAs, such as the QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus or T-Spot.TB test, are blood tests that measure the immune system’s response to TB bacteria. These tests require a single blood draw and offer quicker results, typically within a few days. IGRAs are often recommended for individuals who have received the BCG vaccine, as this vaccine can cause a false positive with the TST.

Factors Influencing TB Test Cost

The cost of a TB test at an urgent care facility varies based on several factors. The type of test is a primary determinant, with the Tuberculin Skin Test generally being less expensive than Interferon Gamma Release Assays (IGRAs). A PPD test might range from approximately $20 to $175, while an IGRA blood test typically costs between $30 and $350. Geographical location also plays a role, as pricing structures for medical services can differ across regions and cities.

Additional fees can influence the overall expense. Many urgent care centers charge a separate office visit fee, which might be bundled with the test or added on top of the test cost. For PPD tests, a second visit is required for the reading, and some facilities include this reading fee in the initial price, while others may charge for it separately. Understanding the urgent care provider’s pricing structure, including any add-on services, helps clarify the total cost.

The Urgent Care TB Test Process

Obtaining a TB test at an urgent care center begins with a check-in process. Patients provide identification and complete intake forms. A healthcare provider conducts a consultation, reviewing the patient’s medical history and the reason for the TB test. The provider then administers the chosen TB test.

For a Tuberculin Skin Test (PPD), a small amount of liquid is injected just beneath the skin on the inner forearm, creating a small bump. Instructions are provided to keep the area dry and undisturbed for 48 to 72 hours. Patients must then return to the urgent care center within this timeframe for a healthcare professional to read the test results by measuring any reaction at the injection site.

For an IGRA blood test, a blood sample is drawn, and no return visit is needed as the sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis. Results for both types of tests are communicated to the patient once available, either through a follow-up visit, phone call, or secure online portal.

Insurance and Payment Options

Health insurance plans often cover the cost of TB testing, especially when medically necessary or required for employment, school, or travel. The extent of coverage depends on the specific insurance plan, including whether it is a Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), or a high-deductible plan. Patients should verify their benefits beforehand to understand potential out-of-pocket expenses, such as co-pays, deductibles, or co-insurance. Coverage may also be affected by whether the urgent care center is in-network or out-of-network with the patient’s insurance provider.

For individuals without health insurance or those opting not to use it, self-pay options are available. Urgent care centers offer self-pay rates, which can sometimes be discounted for upfront payment. These self-pay prices vary by facility and location, ranging from lower costs for the PPD test to higher rates for the IGRA blood test. While some urgent care centers may offer limited payment plans or financial assistance programs, this is less common than at larger hospital systems.