TOUCHED BY LYME: How to save money on certain Lyme-related lab tests
Paying out-of-pocket for lab testing can take a hefty toll on your family’s pocketbook. Here’s one way to save.
Most folks dealing with Lyme, even those with supposedly “good” insurance, end up paying out-of-pocket for many lab tests. Our family recently shelled out big bucks at Lab Corp. Then, a few weeks later, we had to go back again for more. But there was a difference this time. Between the two visits, I learned about a website called DirectLabs.com.
Here’s how it works:
You register on-line with DirectLabs. You indicate which tests you need and you pay up front with a credit card. You print out a requisition slip, which you take to your nearest Lab Corp office. That’s it.
Our two visits to Lab Corp within such a short time were virtually identical—except we saved a boatload of money the second time.
Your discount will vary by the test. A CD-57 gives you minor savings—you pay $129 instead of $143.
But DHEA costs $69 instead of $204. And a thyroid T3 is $74 instead of $285.
Depending on what you need, there could be considerable savings.
Turns out, DirectLabs is not the only website like this. Here are some others:
There is price variation among these websites, depending upon which test you order. It pays to comparison shop before you buy.
There are also variations by state—some sites don’t service customers in Rhode Island, New Jersey and New York. At least one site doesn’t serve Massachusetts. Different sites may use different lab companies. So, like everything else Lyme-related, you have to do your homework to figure out what works best for you.
So, how come there’s such a price difference between a person who walks in off the street and one who has previously registered with one of these websites? These companies have negotiated bulk deals with the labs, and are passing that savings along to their customers.
Works for me.
Note: If you are low-income and need Lyme diagnostic testing, you may qualify for a grant from Lyme-TAP. More information at www.LymeTap.com.
Contact blogger Dorothy Kupcha Leland at dleland@lymedisease.org.
Thanks for posting this information.
Hi Dorothy,
Do you know if DirectLabs can be used with Medicare to cover tests they don't cover?
Susan, I know you have to pay upfront for all these pre-paid lab websites. Don't know how these do or don't interface with Medicare. Why don't you call DirectLabs and ask? There's a phone number on the website.
I also have a list of labs that are 'in network,' meaning that they take insurance for tests such as Western Blots, which Igenex will not. Here's the link:
http://bobcowart.blogspot.com/2011/05/lyme-blood-tests-covered-by-insurance.html
I also have a list of labs that are 'in network,' meaning that they take insurance for tests such as Western Blots, which Igenex will not. Here's the link:
http://bobcowart.blogspot.com/2011/05/lyme-blood-tests-covered-by-insurance.html
I need help on paying for my picc line proceedure and meds for the next month. I have no insurance. And ideas on who i can call, anyone?
There's one of these in my neighborhood. The doctor at my clinic gave me an ELISA test which came back at 0.1, so he diagnosed me as having "anxiety disorder", but I have all the symptoms of Lyme and they are getting worse.
If I pay out-of-pocket to these labs for the more accurate Western Blot test, turn out positive, and bring the results to my Doc, is it likely that he will then treat me for Lyme?
I am in MA and have an H.M.O. On a whim, I sent in my receipts to my insurance company and they paid for all of my out of pocket expenses, including IGenex. I was shocked, but it was certainly worth the effort. Thanks for this information, too!
It its not too much asking. Which insurance was this?
If I use a direct lab, am I still eligible for the financial assistance if the other reqs are met? My insurance does not cover lab work.
Direct labs have no connection to insurance. You pay upfront.