Non-High Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol

Finding a Non-High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Test

How can I get a non-HDL cholesterol test?

Non-HDL cholesterol can be calculated as part of testing that measures total cholesterol and HDL cholesterol. These tests are usually ordered by a doctor. A blood sample is required for these tests and they can be taken at a medical office, laboratory, or hospital. A laboratory analyzes the sample to determine the amounts of different kinds of cholesterol in the blood.

Some cholesterol tests are performed on-site without having to send a sample to a laboratory. This is known as point-of-care testing, and it is done with a drop of blood from your fingertip. Point-of-care tests provide rapid results and may be done in hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, or events such as health fairs.

Can I take the test at home?

Cholesterol can be measured with different kinds of at-home tests, including self-tests and self-collection kits.

• Self-tests involve placing a drop of blood from your fingertip onto special test paper. In most cases, that paper is then placed in a small device that determines cholesterol levels. Some self-tests use test paper that changes color based on cholesterol levels. If a self-test measures total cholesterol and HDL cholesterol, those values can be used to calculate the amount of non-HDL cholesterol.
• Self-collection kits allow you to take a blood sample from your fingertip and mail it to a laboratory. Results are usually provided within a few days through an online health portal. The test may include non-HDL cholesterol, or you may be able to calculate this yourself if total cholesterol and HDL cholesterol are analyzed. You can order a test kit online and take your sample to a local lab for testing, with results in two to five days.

How much does the test cost?

There is no set price for a non-HDL cholesterol test. Instead, the cost depends on whether you have insurance coverage and where the blood sample is taken and analyzed.

The cost of a non-HDL cholesterol test can vary based on factors including:

• The number of measurements included in the test
• Whether it is a laboratory or point-of-care test
• Where the test is conducted
• Whether the test is covered by health insurance

Charges can arise related to office visits, taking the test sample, and analyzing your blood. These charges may be covered by insurance, especially if your doctor prescribes the test. However, you may still have copayments or costs toward your deductible. For this reason, contact your health insurance plan and your doctor for more specific information on the cost of non-HDL cholesterol testing.