Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Gestational Diabetes Test Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| 1-Hour Glucose Challenge Test | $25 – $75 | $0 – $15 |
| 3-Hour Glucose Tolerance Test | $50 – $200 | $0 – $30 |
CPT/ADA Code: 82950
What Affects the Cost
- Brand-name vs. generic availability
- Insurance formulary tier placement
- Pharmacy choice (retail vs. mail-order vs. Costco)
- Manufacturer savings cards and coupons
- Dosage and quantity prescribed
- Geographic location
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: Preventive prenatal screening — covered at no cost under ACA plans
Most insurance plans use a tiered formulary: Tier 1 (generic) $0-$15 copay, Tier 2 (preferred brand) $25-$75, Tier 3 (non-preferred brand) $50-$150, Tier 4 (specialty) $100-$500+. Prior authorization may be required for certain medications. Step therapy may require trying cheaper alternatives first.
How to Save Money
- Always ask for generic when available — saves 50-90%
- Use GoodRx, RxSaver, or similar discount cards
- Costco pharmacy is open to non-members and often has lowest prices
- Mark Cuban's Cost Plus Drugs offers transparent low pricing
- Manufacturer patient assistance programs provide free medication to qualifying patients
- HSA/FSA funds can cover medication costs tax-free
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
The gestational diabetes screening costs $25 to $200 without insurance. It is covered at no cost as preventive prenatal care.
The 1-hour glucose challenge test is done at 24-28 weeks of pregnancy. Women with risk factors may be tested earlier.
If the 1-hour screening is elevated, a 3-hour glucose tolerance test confirms the diagnosis. If positive, dietary changes and monitoring are the first steps.