Let's Talk Insurance:

Everyone's insurance plan is different. Whether your plan doesn't cover certain tests or you have a high lab work deductible, that doesn't mean you are stuck paying astronomical amounts. There are several options for you to get the blood work you need without it costing an arm and a leg. ​

Options:

1. Choose a lab draw facility that is in network. Sometimes your insurance will only cover blood work if it is done at a facility in network. This means even if your insurance doesn't cover your visits at Avena, we are still able to write a lab slip for you to then take to blood draw facility that is in network. If you are unsure which labs are in network, it is best to call your the number on your insurance card and inquire which lab companies are in network. 
2. Check beforehand which test codes are covered. Some insurance plans are very specific about what tests are covered, partly covered and not covered at all. If you are unsure of which tests your insurance does cover, it is best to check before having the blood work done and getting a surprising bill on the other side. The best way to know is to call your insurance company with the test codes. Once your doctor has seen you and written up your lab slip here at Avena, we can provide you with a copy of the individual test codes. You should be able to call your insurance company and check to see if all the tests are covered and, if not, what the cost will be. 
3. Use a self-pay lab instead. These are labs that are dedicated to providing transparent billing and testing. Cash labs offer reduced pricing because they not go through insurance. If you are having your blood drawn at Avena, we work with several cash rate labs that you can use rather than running blood work through your insurance. If you choose this option, you will know the cost of your blood work up front and pay for it on the day your get your blood drawn. Remember though that if you use a cash lab, it does not get run through insurance at all and it will not count towards meeting your deductible. Unless you already know your insurance won't cover blood work, we recommend calling them with the test codes first to be able to compare which is more cost effective option for you. 

If you are interested in utilizing cash rate labs or have more questions, please send us an email or give our office a call! We are happy to walk you through the options and pick one that is the most cost effective for you and your family. To know ahead of time what your insurance will cover, it is best to call them and ask what your lab work coverage is and if you have a separate deductible for it.

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