How Much Does An A1C Test Cost Without Insurance in 2021?

An A1C blood test measures the amount of glucose in your blood over the past 3 months. This test is commonly used to diagnose prediabetes and diabetes. The average cost of an A1C test without insurance is $85.20. This cost can change depending on the location of the service and the baseline fee of the visit. 

For only $45 per month, you’ll have access to same-day lab testing and low-cost urgent care visits, where you can typically get an A1C test done. Put your health above the cost. Sign up today. 

The Cost of An A1C Test at Different Clinics & Locations

We used information from 5 different clinics in major metropolitan areas around the U.S. to determine the average cost of an A1C test. Without insurance, the cost of getting an A1C test costs about $85.20. The least expensive test was found at CVS Minute Clinic in New York City at $32. 

This is solely the cost of getting an A1C blood test done and doesn’t include provider fees or any additional costs you may incur. These are in-house lab tests, so there may be additional costs if the clinic you go to sends out a sample for testing. 

Cost of A1C Test Without Insurance At Different Clinics

Factors that Influence the Cost of An A1C Test 

The cost of getting an A1C test varies from state to state and clinic to clinic. If you’re on a budget, it’s important to know when and where you might run into additional costs. Many factors may influence the cost of your test, including: 

• Cost of the initial visit to the doctor: If you are getting an A1C test done at an urgent care center or a hospital, you will have to pay for the initial visit with the doctor in addition to the lab test. This is a baseline fee that all patients must pay. Some clinics include the test cost in their flat-rate fee for a visit, but an A1C test is typically regarded as an add-on service. Visit fees typically range from $100 to $200 at an urgent care clinic. First-time patients may have to pay a higher fee than regular visitors.
• Using outside lab testing: Some clinics do not have an in-house laboratory and therefore cannot process labs at their facility. In this case, your test would need to be sent to an outside lab, which can cost much more than a typical A1C test. When deciding to get a test, make sure to call ahead to see if they use an outside lab or one at their clinic. Without insurance, lab tests can cost anywhere from $100 to over $1000.
• Where you get your test: Depending on what clinic you go to for your A1C test can also alter the cost dramatically. Typically, hospitals tend to cost more for a visit. For a simple lab like an A1C test, consider visiting an urgent care center or a lab testing site. The same treatment will be cheaper than visiting the hospital. Going directly to a lab to get your test done can help you save money on the baseline fee you’ll have to pay at a clinic as well.

How to Save Money On An A1C Test 

There are a few ways you can save money on your next A1C test. Below is a list of the best cost-saving options. 

Discounts at Clinics 

Many hospitals and urgent care centers have discount programs for patients who don’t have insurance. You will usually apply for a financial assistance program that determines eligibility based on your household income. The amount of money you receive is typically limited to how much a person with insurance would be charged. Some facilities may offer coupons and discounts that you can find on their website. 

At-Home Testing 

Another way to save money on an A1C test is by using an at-home test kit. These kits can be purchased at most drug stores and are simple to use. At CVS, a pack of 2 tests currently costs $43.49, which is $21.74 per test.

Healthcare Membership

An A1C test with a Mira membership costs $19. You’ll be able to get the test the same day you request it as well, which may be quicker than other available options. Within a Mira membership, you’ll also have access to low-cost urgent care visits and up to 80 percent off on over 1,000 different prescriptions, all for just $45 per month. 

A1C Test Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are the answers to some common questions about this common lab test. 

What is an A1C test?

An A1C test is a blood test that measures the average amount of glucose in your blood over the past 3 months. It is sometimes referred to as a hemoglobin A1C or HbA1C test as well. The test is done by taking a blood sample from a vein or a finger prick. A1C tests are among the most commonly used tests to diagnose prediabetes and type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It can also be used to monitor sugar levels for those who already have diabetes. 

When should I get an A1C test?

You should get an A1C test if you have a family history of either type 1 or type 2 diabetes to ensure you catch the disease early. If you are over the age of 45 and have any prediabetes or diabetes risk factors, it’s also a good idea to get a baseline test. And, if you have already been diagnosed, make sure to get a test every 3 months to monitor your sugar levels. 

What is a bad A1C level?

A1C results indicate as follows:

• Normal results: below 5.7%
• Prediabetes: 5.7 to 6.4%
• Diabetes: 6.5% and above 

If your results fall in the prediabetes and diabetes range, you should speak with your healthcare provider about follow-up steps. Lifestyle changes can be made if you have developed prediabetes, but you will most likely need to start treatment immediately if your levels indicate diabetes. 

How accurate is an at-home A1C test?

A1C at-home kits are considered to be just as accurate as one that is done at a lab. When shopping for an at-home test, look for a National Glycohemoglobin Standardization Program (NGSP) certified and has an FDA clearance or a CE-mark. This will ensure the accuracy of the kit. These tests will have accuracy within 0.5% of the true value.

How often should I get my A1C checked?

If you have been diagnosed with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, you should get an A1C test every 3 months to monitor your levels. If you have been diagnosed with prediabetes, you should get a test at least once a year. Otherwise, listen to your doctor’s recommendation if you are at risk for developing diabetes, which will be every 1-2 years. 

Bottom Line 

An A1C test is used to monitor blood sugar levels over the past 3 months. It’s important to get a test if you have a family history of type 1 or type 2 diabetes, but it can be costly. According to our research, the average cost of an A1C test is $85.20. The price of the test can vary depending on what kind of facility you visit, if it gets sent to an outside lab, or if you have to pay an additional office visit fee. 

One way you can save money on your next A1C test is by signing up for Mira. With a Mira membership, you can get a same-day A1C test for only $19. Your subscription will also give you access to low-cost urgent care visits (where A1C testing can be done) and discounted prescription medications for just $45 a month. Sign up for Mira today.