Basic Metabolic Panel vs Joint Injection (Cortisone)
Medicare Cost Comparison 2025
Quick Answer
Basic Metabolic Panel: $25 total · Medicare pays $20 · Patient pays $5
Joint Injection (Cortisone): $800 total · Medicare pays $640 · Patient pays $160
Cost Comparison
| Metric | Basic Metabolic Panel | Joint Injection (Cortisone) |
|---|---|---|
| Total Average Cost | $25 | $800 |
| Medicare Pays | $20 | $640 |
| Patient Pays | $5 | $160 |
| Category | lab | outpatient |
FAQ
What is the cost difference between Basic Metabolic Panel and Joint Injection (Cortisone)?
Joint Injection (Cortisone) costs $800 on average, while Basic Metabolic Panel costs $25 — a difference of $775.
How much does Medicare pay for Basic Metabolic Panel vs Joint Injection (Cortisone)?
Medicare typically pays $20 for Basic Metabolic Panel (patient owes $5). For Joint Injection (Cortisone), Medicare pays $640 (patient owes $160).
What is Basic Metabolic Panel?
Blood test measuring glucose, calcium, electrolytes, and kidney function.
What is Joint Injection (Cortisone)?
Injection of corticosteroids into a joint to reduce inflammation.