Estimated costs of 51 commonly ordered laboratory tests in Canada

Test cost display has been shown to reduce inappropriate laboratory test ordering practices in the United States. Unfortunately, such a system is limited in the Canadian publically funded healthcare environment. Many Canadian physicians inaccurately estimate the cost of laboratory tests, which may contribute to mis-utilization. Here, we provide an estimated cost of over 50 commonly ordered laboratory tests in Canada as an educational tool for physicians.

Test volume data was collected from Calgary Laboratory Services' Laboratory Information System in order to determine which laboratory and diagnostic tests are most commonly ordered in Calgary and its surrounding area. Reference median cost (RMC) of fifty one commonly ordered test was calculated by determining the price list of all-inclusive indirect costs from six different clinical laboratories across Canada.

Of the 51 laboratory tests included, the minimum RMC was $5 CAD (eg: albumin, calcium, urea), and the maximum RMC was $300 (surgical pathology report).

A caveat to the provided list of test costs is that it is only an estimate and may differ from what each individual clinical laboratories charges to third parties or for research purposes. However, this list can serve as an educational tool and raise awareness for Canadian physicians on the relative costs of laboratory tests.