The cost of a biopsy test varies significantly. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from ₹5,000 to ₹20,000 or more in India. However, this is just an estimate.
Factors Affecting Biopsy Cost
Several factors influence the final price:
- Type of Biopsy: The procedure's complexity and the type of tissue sampled directly impact the cost. A simple skin biopsy will likely be less expensive than a more invasive procedure like a bone marrow biopsy.
- Location: Geographic location plays a role. Costs vary between healthcare facilities and regions.
- Healthcare Facility: The type of facility—private hospital, clinic, or public hospital—affects pricing. Private facilities often charge more.
- Insurance Coverage: Insurance plans vary widely in their coverage of biopsy tests. Some may cover a significant portion, while others may require substantial out-of-pocket payments. The example in one report shows a patient with a $6,000 deductible facing a significant bill even with insurance. (https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2022/08/23/1118852779/an-18-000-biopsy-paying-cash-might-have-been-cheaper-than-using-her-insurance)
Finding Accurate Cost Information
For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, it is crucial to:
- Contact Healthcare Providers Directly: Call the specific healthcare facilities where you are considering the procedure. Inquire about their fees and payment options.
- Check with Your Insurance Provider: Contact your insurance company to understand your coverage and any out-of-pocket expenses you might incur.
Different types of biopsies, such as liquid biopsies (blood tests used in cancer diagnosis), also have varying costs and insurance coverage. (https://www.cancer.gov/news-events/cancer-currents-blog/2020/fda-guardant-360-foundation-one-cancer-liquid-biopsy) The cost-effectiveness of various biopsy methods is a subject of ongoing research. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38552670/, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3085603/)
