Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Iron Test (Iron Panel) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Serum Iron Only | $30 – $70 | $5 – $20 |
| Iron Panel (Iron, TIBC, Ferritin) | $50 – $120 | $10 – $30 |
| Ferritin Only | $25 – $60 | $5 – $15 |
| Comprehensive Iron Studies | $75 – $150 | $15 – $35 |
CPT/ADA Code: CPT 83540
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 diagnostic when anemia or iron deficiency is suspected
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
An iron panel measures serum iron, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), transferrin saturation, and ferritin to diagnose iron-deficiency anemia, iron overload (hemochromatosis), or chronic disease.
Yes, when ordered to evaluate symptoms like fatigue, weakness, pale skin, or shortness of breath. It is typically covered as a diagnostic lab test with standard copay or coinsurance.
Normal ferritin is 20-200 ng/mL for women and 20-500 ng/mL for men. Below 20 strongly suggests iron deficiency. Very high levels may indicate inflammation, liver disease, or hemochromatosis.