Nov 28, 2020 10:31 AM EST By Ernest Hamilton, UniversityHerald Reporter

Taking medical tests can be vital to ensuring you are in good health and can help you discover if you have any serious medical conditions or diseases. On the other hand, going to the doctor to get these tests can add up tremendously if you are not fully covered, thanks to co-pays and co-insurance costs you must pay until you meet your deductible. Not to mention the fact that going to the doctor's office during a pandemic can be hazardous to your health. Fortunately, there is an easy and cost-effective way to skip out on all those hefty fees, and that is by taking at-home medical tests. There is an abundance of these tests available for just about any medical concern you may have at affordable prices for all. 

HIV Tests

The CDC recommends that every individual from ages 13 and 64 get an HIV test at least once in their life. Being able to detect HIV can help individuals lead safer and healthier lives. At-home HIV tests are a great alternative to in-person visits due to costs and privacy concerns, with the average price sitting at about $40. 

Blood Pressure Tests

Having high blood pressure can lead to serious medical conditions such as heart attacks, heart failure, and strokes, to name a few. Luckily, at-home blood pressure tests are widely available online and in-store at prices as low as $15. These at-home tests can also save you a large sum of money in the long-run, as doctors often recommend getting these tests regularly to monitor your progress. 

Cholesterol Tests

Rather than waiting a lengthy amount of time for cholesterol test results, you can buy a $20 at-home test and get results of your cholesterol in just a few minutes. Just like blood pressure tests, regular cholesterol tests from the doctor can rack up heavy fees due to a need to keep track of your cholesterol, making at-home tests a perfect alternative. 

Food Allergy Tests

If you have any severe adverse reactions to certain foods, it will still be best to discuss this with your physician. On the other hand, if you are curious about potential allergies or sensitivities to different types of foods that you may have, you can pick up an at-home food allergy test from $30 - $200. 

STD Tests

Like HIV testing, getting early STD testing can help you treat a potential disease early on, leading to a healthier lifestyle in the long-run. The tests are easy to take and provide quick results so you can treat any potential disease efficiently. There are many different options for STD tests, with prices ranging from $50 to $200. These tests are also ideal for those who prefer privacy. 

Pregnancy Tests

Pregnancy tests are some of the most affordable at-home tests and some of the most commonly used. Taking a pregnancy test at the early stages of pregnancy will help you decide on the right steps to take, depending on the results. The most affordable tests can come as low as $1 in some pharmacies. 

DNA Tests

DNA testing is popular for those who would like to learn more about their genetics and overall family history. Knowing these details can also help you become aware of any potentially serious medical conditions or diseases. With such popularity for these tests, there are plenty of options when it comes to finding the best financial fit for you. The best-priced ones with good reviews stand at somewhere between $40 - $50. 

COVID-19 Tests

The COVID-19 pandemic is still in full force around much of the globe, leaving many people concerned about catching the virus. While coronavirus testing is available in many doctor's offices and hospitals worldwide, many individuals would prefer to skip potentially long lines or crowded areas in order to get results. Instead, many are getting an at-home coronavirus test to help them get the answer they need. Prices begin at $89, depending on which company you opt for. The tests will require you to perform a nasal swab and send your sample back to a lab for testing. This at-home medical test acts as a safe and secure alternative to in-person testing, which can come with its own risks for both yourself and others. 

Any of these at-home medical tests can save you big bucks as an alternative to in-doctor testing. 

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