Lab tests
COVID-19 test specimen collection cost in Minnesota
COVID-19 test specimen collection 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 Minnesota
From 16 hospital and 0 clinic prices in Minnesota.
Nationwide typical: $24.02 (most listed prices $6.90–$70).
Cheapest in Minnesota
- $19.04
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: Aspirus St. Luke's Hospital price file · checked Oct 2026 - $24.82
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: Cuyuna Regional Medical Center price file · checked Oct 2026 - $28.80
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: Aspirus Lake View Hospital price file · checked Oct 2026 - $30.29
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: Glacial Ridge Health System price file · checked Oct 2026 - $43.96
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: Essentia Health-Virginia price file · checked Oct 2026 - $46.20
Doctor fees are billed separately. +2 more in this system at the same published price.
Source: Essentia Health-Duluth (Miller-Dwan Building) price file · checked Oct 2026 - Essentia Health-St. Joseph's Medical Center (Brainerd)COVID-19 test specimen collectionFacility fee only$47.11
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: Essentia Health-St. Joseph's Medical Center (Brain price fil · checked Oct 2026 - $51.73
Doctor fees are billed separately. +6 more in this system at the same published price.
Source: Essentia Health-Ada 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.