Jan Manarite, December 2024
Did you know? You can order many of your own blood tests online in most states, without a doctor’s order, and without going through your insurance. However, we recommend you discuss ALL test results with your doctors and nurses. You will also need to pay for the tests yourself, since you are bypassing your insurance company. I’ve been doing this for years with a few specific tests I’ve wanted to monitor.
Is it legal?
In most states, yes. The American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCLS) writes that “A movement that empowers consumers to take responsibility for their own healthcare has created a major paradigm shift in healthcare. This shift moves from clinician-driven focus to consumer-driven focus, which has led to the development of different forms of direct consumer access to laboratory testing commonly referred to as direct access testing (DAT). DAT is generally defined as consumer requested laboratory testing.2 DAT is known by a variety of other names including direct-to-consumer or patient-authorized testing.2 It is characterized by the consumer ordering the tests to be completed (or initiating the order) and paying up-front and out-of-pocket for the service”. REF
Which states allow it?
This is something that can change, but again, it looks like most states allow it. Check with the lab you’re ordering from to be sure. I can tell you that here in Florida, I’ve been ordering occasional blood tests for myself and my loved ones for over 15 years. So far, I’ve never had a problem.
How much is a PSA Blood Test?
Prices will change, so always double check. But as of today, here are 3 prices (with links) for a ‘Screening PSA” blood test. This PSA test result goes to 1 or 2 decimals. (It does not give you 3 decimal point numbers like an Ultrasensitive PSA.)
Costs listed online as of today (w/ links). Check yourself for current prices:
| Quest | LabCorp | Life Extension | |
| PSA Blood Test | $69 | $69 | $31 |
| Testosterone ( T) | $51.75 (total T only) | $139 (total T + free T) | $99 (total T + free T) |
| HGB A1c | $39 | $39 | $31 |
| Vitamin D, 25-Hydroxy | $75 | $99 | $47 |
*Remember – PSA tests ordered from the same lab are preferrable, since machines (assays) can vary in results.
Talking Over Test Results with your Doctors and Nurses
This is important. The way that you share this conversation can be helpful to you. Here’s what we suggest:
- Give a copy of the printed report to your doctor or nurse. Don’t try to have this discussion without showing him/her the actual result. Verbal information just isn’t good enough.
- Highlight the DATE the test was drawn, and the test result. Doctors and nurses are busy and helping them see the key information may be helpful.
- If you have previous results of the same test, show the history, range, or pattern. Comparing one test to other tests always gives more information than just one result.
- Form your comments into Questions (arguments don’t help you). Make time to Listen also.
- Ask your doctor or nurse if a Telehealth appointment makes sense. They are usually easier, and shorter.
- Remember that most of our doctors are busier than they want to be. Part of the reason is that insurance companies regulate how long they can spend with their patients, and there is a doctor shortage in the US.
Good luck on your journey and your next appointment. Remember that better questions give you better answers…
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