How Much Does Stool Culture Cost?
Also known as: Stool culture (CPT 87045)
Stool culture to identify bacteria causing diarrhea.
Stool Culture (CPT 87045) costs $9 at Medicare rates.
Patient Guide: Stool Culture
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
You collect a stool sample at home using a provided container. The lab grows and identifies bacteria in the sample.
How Long Does It Take?
Collection at home; results in 2-3 days
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Persistent diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, food poisoning evaluation, traveler diarrhea
How to Prepare
Follow collection instructions carefully. Keep the sample refrigerated and deliver to the lab promptly.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Stool culture
How to Reduce Your Cost for Stool culture
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 Stool culture cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Stool culture is $9. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Stool culture cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Stool culture 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 Stool culture?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Stool culture 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.