Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Lyme Disease Test Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| ELISA Screening | $50 – $125 | $10 – $30 |
| Western Blot (confirmatory) | $75 – $200 | $15 – $50 |
| Two-Tier Testing (ELISA + Western Blot) | $100 – $300 | $25 – $60 |
| PCR Test | $100 – $250 | $25 – $60 |
CPT/ADA Code: CPT 86618
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 tick exposure or symptoms present
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
Wait at least 2-4 weeks after a tick bite before testing. Antibodies take time to develop. Testing too early can produce false-negative results. See a doctor immediately if you develop a bull's-eye rash.
Yes. Lyme testing is covered as a diagnostic lab test when ordered by a doctor due to symptoms or tick exposure. Standard lab copays and deductibles apply.
The two-tier approach (ELISA followed by Western Blot) is about 95% accurate in later stages. In the first few weeks, sensitivity is only 30-40% because antibodies have not fully developed.