What drives the price of a genetic test
- Scope. Checking one known variant costs less than reading a whole gene, a multi-gene panel, or your whole exome or genome.
- Number of tests. Cost goes up if you need more than one test, or if several family members need testing to make sense of a result.
- Clinical vs consumer. Clinical tests run in certified labs and are reported to your clinician. Consumer kits test a set list of variants for traits, ancestry or wellness.
Genetic testing cost by type
| Type | Where it falls in cost | Who usually pays |
|---|---|---|
| Consumer DNA kit (traits, ancestry, wellness) | Lower end | You; insurance generally doesn't cover it, though some kits may be reimbursable through an HSA or FSA |
| Single variant or single gene (clinical) | Lower to middle | Insurance often covers part or all when a clinician says it is needed |
| Multi-gene panel, such as an inherited cancer panel | Middle to higher | Insurance or Medicare when coverage criteria are met; otherwise you |
| Whole exome or whole genome sequencing | Higher end | Insurance only if your plan covers it for your situation; check first |
| Newborn screening | Most states charge $30 to $150 per infant | Set by each state; some cover part of the cost |
Genetic testing cost with insurance
Many plans cover genetic testing when your clinician recommends it, but each insurer has its own list of covered tests. Medicare covers some tests under specific rules: for example, next-generation sequencing of tumors in people with advanced cancer, and inherited (germline) cancer testing in people with certain cancers and risk factors.
Your share depends on your deductible and coinsurance. Before the sample is taken, ask your insurer and the lab for your estimated cost. Details are in does insurance cover genetic testing.
Paying cash for genetic testing
- Ask for a self-pay price from the lab, including any counseling or ordering fee.
- Request a good faith estimate. Under the No Surprises Act, uninsured and self-pay patients can usually get one, and you may be able to dispute a bill that comes in at least $400 higher.
- Check HSA or FSA rules with your plan administrator before paying with those funds.
- Make sure the test answers your question. Some popular tests, such as MTHFR, rarely change care; see MTHFR test.
At Gabriel, a free account pays cost-plus prices on lab tests, and Gabriel Core and Plus members get member prices on lab tests. Gabriel can also explain a genetic report you already have, free.
Common questions
How much does genetic testing cost without insurance?
From under $100 to more than $2,000, depending on the test. Ask the lab for its self-pay price and a good faith estimate before you test.
Is genetic testing covered by insurance?
Often, when a clinician recommends it and it meets your plan's criteria. Consumer DNA kits generally aren't covered.
How much is whole genome sequencing?
It is at the high end of genetic testing costs, and price varies widely by lab and by whether it is clinical or consumer. Ask for a written quote, and check whether your plan covers it for your situation.
Can I use my HSA or FSA for genetic testing?
MedlinePlus notes some consumer tests may be reimbursable through an HSA or FSA. Rules vary, so check with your plan administrator or a tax advisor before you pay.
Why is genetic testing so expensive?
Larger tests read more of your DNA and need expert interpretation. Costs also rise when several tests or family members are needed.
Sources
- What is the cost of genetic testing, and how long does it take to get the results? MedlinePlus Genetics, U.S. National Library of Medicine
- What is direct-to-consumer genetic testing? MedlinePlus Genetics, U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Will health insurance cover the costs of genetic testing? MedlinePlus Genetics, U.S. National Library of Medicine
- NCD 90.2: Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
- Your rights and protections against surprise medical bills Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
This guide is general information, not medical advice. It does not replace a visit with a licensed clinician. Gabriel membership is not health insurance.