Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Pulmonary Function Test (PFT/Spirometry) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Spirometry | $50 – $200 | $10 – $50 |
| Full Pulmonary Function Test | $200 – $600 | $50 – $150 |
| Methacholine Challenge Test | $300 – $700 | $75 – $200 |
| Diffusion Capacity (DLCO) | $150 – $400 | $30 – $100 |
CPT/ADA Code: 94010
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: Diagnostic — covered when ordered to evaluate respiratory symptoms or monitor lung disease
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
PFTs cost $150 to $600 without insurance depending on the complexity of testing performed.
PFTs diagnose asthma, COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, and other lung diseases. They measure how well your lungs move air in and out.
Basic spirometry takes about 15 minutes. A complete PFT battery takes 45-60 minutes.