How Much Does Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) Cost?
Also known as: Blood test, basic group of blood chemicals (Calcium, total) (CPT 80048)
A blood test that checks 8 substances including blood sugar, calcium, and kidney function.
Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) (CPT 80048) costs $8 at Medicare rates.
Patient Guide: Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP)
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
Blood is drawn from a vein in your arm. The lab tests for sugar, calcium, and key markers of kidney function and electrolyte balance.
How Long Does It Take?
5 minutes for blood draw, results in hours
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Kidney function check, blood sugar screening, electrolyte balance, emergency evaluation, dehydration
How to Prepare
Fasting for 8-12 hours may be required. Drink water. Ask your doctor about medication timing.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Blood test, basic group of blood chemicals (Calcium, total)
How to Reduce Your Cost for Blood test, basic group of blood chemicals (Calcium, total)
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 Blood test, basic group of blood chemicals (Calcium, total) cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Blood test, basic group of blood chemicals (Calcium, total) is $8. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Blood test, basic group of blood chemicals (Calcium, total) cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Blood test, basic group of blood chemicals (Calcium, total) 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 Blood test, basic group of blood chemicals (Calcium, total)?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Blood test, basic group of blood chemicals (Calcium, total) 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.