How Much Does a Prothrombin Test Cost?
A Prothrombin test is one that measures how long your blood takes to clot. It is important to know the results of this test if you are taking blood-thinning medication (such as Heparin), or if you have liver damage or injury. If you’re wondering how to prepare for this test, what is involved in the process, and how much it might cost, you’ve come to the right place!
The CPT code of bleeding time and clotting time test is 85610.
Why is the Test Performed?
This blood test is mainly done to see how patients are responding to medication, if they are preparing for upcoming surgery, or if there is concern about a liver condition. One of the most common medications that must be closely monitored is called Warfarin. Patients take this medicine to prevent blood clots, and so providers order prothrombin tests (also known as a PT test) on a regular basis.
Other reasons you may need this test would be to:
- Find the cause of bruising or unexplained bleeding.
- Check the function and health of the liver.
- Check for other blood or clotting disorders.
Prothrombin time (PT) is always measured in seconds. You may also hear of this test being called an ‘INR”. This stands for “International Normalized Ratio”, which is a way of giving results in a consistent way, no matter the testing method. It allows your doctor to understand and read your results in the same way, no matter the testing method of the lab.
How is the test done?
Like many blood tests, this is done by inserting a needle into the arm. The test should take 5-10 minutes. The technician will draw a small amount of blood and usually sent it to a laboratory to be tested. If the lab is right there in the clinic or hospital, you may have your results within the same day, but if it’s being sent to a lab at a separate location, it may be several days before you receive results. You should be able to return to your daily activities right after the test.
How to Prepare for the Test?
Some medications can change your results, or give inaccurate results. Your doctor will let you know if you need to stop taking any medicines or supplements before the test, but it’s important to share anything you have been taking, even if it’s over-the-counter or herbal supplements. Be sure that you don’t stop or start any medication or vitamins without first telling your provider.
What do my results mean?
An average time range for blood clotting is about 10-14 seconds. A high number means it is taking your blood longer to clot, and a lower number means your blood clots faster than normal. You may also see your INR rate, which is shown as a ratio. This will likely be shown if you take blood-thinning medications.
A normal INR will be 1.1 or below, and if it is 2.0-3.0, it is likely an effective result of blood-thinning medication. Depending now on which blood thinner you are taking, the desired level will be different. If your INR is between 2.0-3.0, you may still be experiencing bleeding problems, and if it’s above 3.0, you will be in a higher risk category for bleeding. Other reasons your numbers may be too high or low while taking blood thinners may be: you’re given the wrong medication dosage, you’re consuming alcohol, you are consuming other vitamins or supplements that might be interacting, or you have changed your eating habits.
If you have special circumstances, like having a mechanical heart valve, you might have a slightly higher INR.
Reasons for slow clotting ( a higher number) could be:
- Bleeding disorder
- Overactive proteins that control blood clotting
- Liver disease
- Vitamin K deficiency
Only your doctor can interpret your results, and help guide your healthcare, so be sure to speak with them about your test.
Risks
This is a relatively low-risk test, but since arteries and veins can vary from one person to another, sometimes getting the blood sample is more challenging. Other minor risks include fainting, a hematoma or light bruising from the puncture site, and the risk of infection because the skin is broken. Lastly, because the test is often performed on people who have bleeding problems, you need to be aware of the risk of excessive bleeding.
How much does a Prothrombin Test cost?
This test costs between $4 and $34, with a national average cost of $18. If you have insurance, you may pay as little as $4 out of pocket, and if you are a cash-pay patient, you will be closer to $30. This amount can change based on where you live, where you have your test was done and the provider that you see.
If you are concerned about the cost of your healthcare bills or upcoming tests, take control back by using a price comparison site like ZeaMed. ZeaMed allows patients to shop around for their needed scans and procedures, just like you’d shop around for the best price on insurance or other services. Our team of expert professionals can guide you and will ensure that you get the best care possible. Visit ZeaMed.com today to get started!
Sources:
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003652.htm
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/prothrombin-time/about/pac-20384661