Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Pap Smear (Pap Test) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Pap Smear Only | $50 – $150 | $0 – $0 |
| Pap with HPV Co-testing | $100 – $250 | $0 – $0 |
| Liquid-Based Pap (ThinPrep) | $75 – $200 | $0 – $0 |
CPT/ADA Code: 88175
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 care — covered at no cost under ACA plans for women 21-65
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
A Pap smear costs $50 to $250 without insurance. It is covered at no cost as preventive care under all ACA-compliant plans.
Women ages 21-29 should have a Pap every 3 years. Women 30-65 can choose Pap every 3 years, HPV test every 5 years, or co-testing every 5 years.
An abnormal Pap may show precancerous changes. It does not mean cancer. Follow-up may include HPV testing, repeat Pap, or colposcopy.