Lab tests
Bacterial culture screening test cost in Iowa
Bacterial culture screening test is an imaging test. Cash prices for imaging vary widely: hospitals often charge several times what an independent imaging center charges for the same scan.
Typical cash price
In Iowa
From 94 hospital and 1 clinic prices in Iowa.
Nationwide typical: $42.50 (most listed prices $9.15–$129).
Cheapest in Iowa
- $7.20
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: Boone County Hospital price file · checked Oct 2026 - $10
For patients without health insurance; initial $85 office visit required.
Source: thebarillasclinic.com · checked Oct 2026 - $10.08
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: CHI Health Mercy Corning price file · checked Oct 2026 - $10.20
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: Mercy Medical Center Cedar Rapids, IA price file · checked Oct 2026 - $10.29
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: CHI Health Missouri Valley price file · checked Oct 2026 - $10.40Source: Buena Vista Regional Medical Center price file · checked Oct 2026
- $11
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: St Anthony Regional Hospital and Nursing Home price file · checked Oct 2026 - $11.70
Doctor fees are billed separately.
- $13.80
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: Methodist Jennie Edmundson price file · checked Oct 2026 - $14.40
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: Story County Medical Center price file · checked Oct 2026 - $16.20
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: MercyOne Genesis Davenport Medical Center price file · checked Oct 2026 - $16.20
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: MercyOne Genesis DeWitt Medical Center price file · checked Oct 2026
Common questions
Is the radiologist's read included?
Not always. Hospitals usually list the scan (technical fee) and the radiologist's read (professional fee) separately. Many imaging centers quote one all-in price. Look for the "All-in", "Scan only" or "Read only" label on each price.
Do I need a referral?
Most imaging tests need an order from a doctor, nurse practitioner or physician assistant. Some imaging centers can arrange one; ask when you call.
Why are prices so different?
Each hospital and clinic sets its own cash price. Hospitals publish prices because federal rules require it; clinics and booking sites set prices to compete. The same service can cost several times more at one place than at another nearby.
Can I pay cash if I have insurance?
Yes. You can choose to self-pay. A cash price is often lower than what you would pay before meeting your deductible. Cash payments may not count toward your deductible, so check with your plan. Our cash vs. insurance tool can help you decide.
What is a Good Faith Estimate?
If you are uninsured or paying cash, providers must give you a Good Faith Estimate of the cost on request. If your final bill is $400 or more above the estimate, you can dispute it.