Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Cardiac Stress Test Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Treadmill Stress Test (Exercise) | $200 – $800 | $50 – $200 |
| Nuclear Stress Test | $1,000 – $3,000 | $200 – $600 |
| Stress Echocardiogram | $800 – $2,500 | $150 – $500 |
| Pharmacological Stress Test | $1,000 – $3,000 | $200 – $600 |
CPT/ADA Code: 93015
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 evaluating heart symptoms or pre-surgical clearance
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 basic treadmill stress test costs $200-$800. Nuclear stress tests cost $1,000-$3,000 without insurance.
Stress tests evaluate how your heart performs during exertion. They can detect coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, and exercise capacity.
A treadmill stress test takes about 1 hour. Nuclear stress tests take 3-4 hours due to imaging before and after exercise.