How Much Does Red Blood Count, Manual Test Cost?
Also known as: Red blood count, manual test (CPT 85044)
Reticulocyte count, measuring young red blood cells to assess bone marrow function.
Red Blood Count, Manual Test (CPT 85044) costs $4 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: Red Blood Count, Manual Test
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
A blood sample counts immature red blood cells, indicating how quickly your bone marrow is producing new red blood cells.
How Long Does It Take?
5-10 minutes
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Anemia evaluation, monitoring response to anemia treatment, bone marrow function assessment
How to Prepare
No special preparation needed.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Red blood count, manual test
How to Reduce Your Cost for Red blood count, manual test
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 Red blood count, manual test cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Red blood count, manual test is $4. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Red blood count, manual test cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Red blood count, manual test 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 Red blood count, manual test?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Red blood count, manual test 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.