How Much Does Hemoglobin A1C Test Cost?
Also known as: Hemoglobin A1C level (CPT 83036)
A hemoglobin A1c blood test that measures your average blood sugar level over the past 2-3 months.
Hemoglobin A1C Test (CPT 83036) costs $10 at Medicare rates.
The rates shown below represent the complete Medicare reimbursement for this service. No separate facility fee applies for this type of procedure.
Patient Guide: Hemoglobin A1C Test
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
A blood sample is drawn from your arm (or sometimes a finger prick). The result shows your average blood sugar control as a percentage.
How Long Does It Take?
5-10 minutes for the blood draw
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Diabetes monitoring, diabetes screening, pre-diabetes evaluation, assessing how well diabetes treatment is working
How to Prepare
No fasting required. This test reflects long-term blood sugar control, so a single high or low day does not significantly affect it.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Hemoglobin A1C level
How to Reduce Your Cost for Hemoglobin A1C level
Practical tips that can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars
- 1 Ask about cash-pay discounts
Many hospitals and clinics offer 20-40% discounts for self-pay patients. Always ask before scheduling.
- 2 Compare facility vs. office setting costs
Some procedures cost significantly less in an office setting than a hospital. Ask your provider about options.
- 3 Shop around — costs vary significantly
Costs can vary 2-3x between providers in the same city. Get quotes from multiple facilities.
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Hemoglobin A1C level cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Hemoglobin A1C level is $10. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Hemoglobin A1C level cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Hemoglobin A1C level can range from 150% of Medicare to 500% of Medicare depending on the facility. Many hospitals and clinics offer self-pay discounts of 20-40% off their chargemaster price. Always ask about cash pricing before your visit.
Does insurance cover Hemoglobin A1C level?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Hemoglobin A1C level when ordered by a physician for a medically necessary reason. Your out-of-pocket cost depends on your plan's deductible, copay/coinsurance structure, and whether you use an in-network provider. Check with your insurance company before scheduling to confirm coverage and get a cost estimate.
Why does the cost vary so much by location?
Medicare adjusts payments using Geographic Practice Cost Indices (GPCIs) that reflect local differences in physician work costs, practice expenses, and malpractice insurance. Manhattan, San Francisco, and other high-cost areas pay significantly more than rural regions. Commercial insurers follow similar geographic patterns.