Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Liver Function Test (LFT / Hepatic Panel) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Hepatic Panel (ALT, AST, ALP, Bilirubin) | $35 – $100 | $0 – $25 |
| Comprehensive Hepatic Panel | $50 – $150 | $10 – $35 |
| GGT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase) Add-On | $20 – $60 | $5 – $15 |
CPT/ADA Code: CPT 80076
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 test; often included in routine annual bloodwork
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 LFT measures enzymes (ALT, AST, ALP), proteins (albumin, total protein), and bilirubin in your blood. Abnormal results can indicate liver damage, hepatitis, fatty liver disease, or bile duct problems.
A basic metabolic panel does not include liver enzymes, but a comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) includes some liver markers. A dedicated hepatic panel provides more thorough liver assessment.
Common causes include alcohol use, fatty liver disease, medications (like statins or acetaminophen), hepatitis, obesity, and heart failure. Mildly elevated levels may be temporary and not a cause for concern.