| Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Medicare Allowed Rate What Medicare approves for this service | $16.80 |
| Typical Billed Amount What providers commonly charge | $30 – $150 |
| Potential Markup How much more you might pay vs. Medicare rate | 793% above Medicare |
What is CPT Code 84443?
CPT code 84443 represents a laboratory test that measures thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in your blood. Your doctor orders this test to check if your thyroid gland is working properly, which affects your metabolism, energy levels, and overall health.
This is one of the most common blood tests doctors order during routine checkups or when you have symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, or feeling too hot or cold. The test requires a simple blood draw, usually from your arm, and the sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Your doctor might order this test alone or along with other thyroid function tests to get a complete picture of your thyroid health. Results help diagnose conditions like hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).
How Much Does a TSH Test Cost?
The cost of a TSH test (CPT 84443) varies significantly depending on where you get it done and your insurance coverage. Medicare pays $16.8 for this test, but typical charges range from $30 to $150 at different facilities.
On your medical bill, you'll see CPT code 84443 listed, possibly with descriptions like "TSH test," "thyroid test," or "thyroid stimulating hormone." The charge amount depends on your healthcare provider's pricing and your location. Hospital labs often charge more than independent labs or your doctor's office.
If you have insurance, you'll typically pay a copay or a percentage after your deductible is met. Without insurance, you might pay the full charge, but many labs offer cash discounts or payment plans. Always ask about pricing upfront, especially if you're paying out of pocket.
How to Check Your TSH Test Bill
When reviewing your medical bill, look for CPT code 84443 and make sure you actually received a TSH test. The code might be listed alongside the date of service and the healthcare provider who ordered it. Verify that the test was medically necessary and ordered by your doctor.
If your bill shows charges significantly higher than $150, or if you see multiple TSH test charges for the same date, contact your healthcare provider's billing department. Sometimes billing errors occur, or you might have been charged for additional tests you didn't realize were ordered.
Be aware that CPT 84443 is sometimes confused with CPT 84436 (thyroxine test), which is a different thyroid test. Make sure the code matches the test you actually received. If you're unsure about any charges, request an itemized bill and don't hesitate to ask questions about what each code represents.