Diagnostic laboratory tests
Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers medically necessary clinical diagnostic laboratory tests.
Description
Diagnostic laboratory tests look for changes in your health and help your doctor diagnose or rule out a suspected illness or condition. These tests may include certain blood tests, urinalysis, and certain tests on tissue specimens.
Coverage details
Part B covers medically necessary clinical diagnostic laboratory tests when your doctor or other health care provider orders them. Medicare also covers some preventive tests and screenings to help prevent or find a medical problem.
Costs
You usually pay nothing for Medicare-covered clinical diagnostic laboratory tests.
Ask your doctor or healthcare provider how much your test, item, or service will cost.
Your doctor may recommend services that Medicare does not cover or offers too frequently. This could end up in additional costs for you. Make sure to ask your doctor about the reasons for these recommendations and what Medicare will actually cover.
Specific amounts you could owe depend on:
Other insurance you may have
How much your doctor charges
If your doctor accepts assignment
The type of facility
Where you get your test, item, or service