How Much Does Urine Culture Cost?
Also known as: Bacterial colony count, urine (CPT 87086)
A lab test that grows bacteria from your urine to identify the specific germ causing a urinary tract infection and which antibiotics will work.
Urine Culture (CPT 87086) costs $8 at Medicare rates.
Patient Guide: Urine Culture
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
You provide a urine sample. The lab attempts to grow bacteria from it over 1-3 days to identify the infection.
How Long Does It Take?
5 minutes to collect, results in 1-3 days
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Suspected urinary tract infection, recurring UTIs, antibiotic selection, UTI that is not responding to treatment
How to Prepare
Collect urine before starting antibiotics if possible. Use clean catch technique.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Bacterial colony count, urine
How to Reduce Your Cost for Bacterial colony count, urine
Practical tips that can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars
- 1 Ask about cash-pay discounts
Many hospitals and clinics offer 20-40% discounts for self-pay patients. Always ask before scheduling.
- 2 Compare facility vs. office setting costs
Some procedures cost significantly less in an office setting than a hospital. Ask your provider about options.
- 3 Shop around — costs vary significantly
Costs can vary 2-3x between providers in the same city. Get quotes from multiple facilities.
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Bacterial colony count, urine cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Bacterial colony count, urine is $8. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Bacterial colony count, urine cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Bacterial colony count, urine can range from 150% of Medicare to 500% of Medicare depending on the facility. Many hospitals and clinics offer self-pay discounts of 20-40% off their chargemaster price. Always ask about cash pricing before your visit.
Does insurance cover Bacterial colony count, urine?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Bacterial colony count, urine when ordered by a physician for a medically necessary reason. Your out-of-pocket cost depends on your plan's deductible, copay/coinsurance structure, and whether you use an in-network provider. Check with your insurance company before scheduling to confirm coverage and get a cost estimate.
Why does the cost vary so much by location?
Medicare adjusts payments using Geographic Practice Cost Indices (GPCIs) that reflect local differences in physician work costs, practice expenses, and malpractice insurance. Manhattan, San Francisco, and other high-cost areas pay significantly more than rural regions. Commercial insurers follow similar geographic patterns.