Quick answer
Usually, yes. ACA-compliant plans must cover tuberculosis screening at no cost for adults at increased risk of latent TB, like people born in or who lived in countries where TB is common or who lived or worked in shelters, prisons or other group settings. A TB test your doctor orders because of symptoms or exposure is covered as diagnostic care, so a copay or deductible may apply. Tests required for a job or school may not be covered.
Key takeaways
- The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends TB screening for adults at increased risk.
- For people who fit that recommendation, ACA plans cover the test with no cost-sharing in network.
- Diagnostic TB tests are covered but may involve your deductible or copay.
- Employment, school or immigration TB tests may not be covered; employers often pay.
- Health departments offer TB testing and treatment, often at low or no cost.
On this page
When a TB test is free
The USPSTF recommends screening for latent TB infection in adults at increased risk. Private ACA-compliant plans must cover recommended preventive services at no cost when you use an in-network provider. You’re considered at increased risk if you:
- were born in or lived in a country where TB is common,
- lived or worked in a homeless shelter, jail or prison, or other group setting,
- have been exposed to someone with active TB, or have a condition or treatment that weakens your immune system (your doctor may test for these reasons as diagnostic care).
Other kinds of TB tests
| Reason for the test | Usually covered? |
|---|---|
| Screening because you’re at increased risk | Yes, at no cost in network |
| Symptoms or a known exposure | Yes, as diagnostic care; cost-sharing may apply |
| Required for a job, like health care work | Sometimes; employers often pay or test on site |
| Required for school or travel | Sometimes; check with your plan |
| Immigration medical exam | Usually paid out of pocket to the civil surgeon |
Medicare and Medicaid
Medicare Part B covers TB testing your doctor orders as medically necessary; standard Part B costs may apply. Medicaid covers TB testing and treatment, and many state and local health departments provide TB services regardless of insurance.
Without insurance
Local health departments often offer TB tests and treatment at low or no cost, especially if you’ve been exposed. Community health centers charge based on income. See the cheapest ways to get health insurance if you need coverage, and does my health insurance cover vaccines for other preventive care.
Need a plan that covers preventive care? Compare quotes by ZIP code.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a TB test without insurance?
Prices vary by clinic and type of test. Health departments and community health centers are often the cheapest options.
Does insurance cover a TB test for work?
Sometimes. If the test is only for employment, your plan may not cover it, but many employers pay for required tests.
Is a TB blood test covered?
Often. Plans cover either the skin test or blood test when it’s recommended screening or medically necessary.
Sources
This article is general information, not medical advice. Last reviewed September 2026.