Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Genetic Testing Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| BRCA1/BRCA2 (breast cancer gene) | $300 – $3,000 | $0 – $250 |
| Carrier Screening Panel (prenatal) | $250 – $1,500 | $0 – $200 |
| Whole Exome Sequencing | $1,000 – $5,000 | $100 – $500 |
| Pharmacogenomic Testing | $200 – $1,000 | $0 – $200 |
| Consumer Genetic Test (23andMe, AncestryDNA) | $100 – $300 | $100 – $300 |
CPT/ADA Code: CPT 81225
What Affects the Cost
- Facility type (freestanding center vs. hospital — hospitals cost 2-3x more)
- Geographic location
- Complexity of the visit or test
- Whether additional tests or procedures are needed
- In-network vs. out-of-network provider
- Time of day (emergency/after-hours may cost more)
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: Covered when medically necessary (cancer risk, carrier screening); may require prior auth
Most diagnostic tests and urgent care visits are covered when medically necessary with a doctor's order. You'll pay your deductible first, then coinsurance (typically 20-40%). Preventive screenings are covered at $0 under the ACA. Always use in-network providers to avoid surprise bills.
How to Save Money
- Freestanding facilities cost 50-70% less than hospital-based
- Ask for cash-pay pricing upfront — often 40-60% less than billed rate
- Compare prices on MDsave.com or Healthcare Bluebook
- Use urgent care instead of ER for non-emergencies (save $1,000+)
- Telehealth visits cost $50-$100 for many conditions
- Check if the service qualifies as preventive care ($0 with insurance)
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Insurance covers genetic testing when it is medically necessary. BRCA testing is covered for women with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer. Prenatal carrier screening is covered under the ACA. Elective consumer tests are not covered.
BRCA testing through Myriad Genetics or other labs costs $300-$3,000 without insurance. With insurance, out-of-pocket costs are typically $0-$250 for qualifying patients. Lower-cost panel tests are available for $250+.
Medically indicated genetic testing can be life-saving for cancer prevention, medication dosing, and family planning. Consumer tests provide ancestry and some health information but have limited clinical utility.