Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Glucose Test (Blood Sugar) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Fasting Glucose | $10 – $50 | $0 – $15 |
| Random Glucose | $10 – $50 | $0 – $15 |
| Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT) | $25 – $75 | $5 – $20 |
| Fingerstick Glucose (point-of-care) | $5 – $20 | $0 – $5 |
CPT/ADA Code: CPT 82947
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 as preventive screening for adults 35-70 who are overweight
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
Yes. Under ACA guidelines, blood glucose screening is covered at 100% as preventive care for adults aged 35-70 who are overweight or obese. For diagnosed diabetics, testing is covered as diagnostic monitoring.
Normal fasting glucose is 70-99 mg/dL. 100-125 mg/dL indicates prediabetes. 126 mg/dL or higher on two tests confirms diabetes.
For a fasting glucose test, you must not eat or drink anything except water for 8-12 hours beforehand. Random glucose tests do not require fasting.