PSA, Total
What it measures
Total prostate-specific antigen in the blood. Elevated levels can indicate prostate cancer, but also benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostatitis.
When it’s ordered
Screening for men 50 and over (Medicare's screening benefit allows it once every 12 months), elevated PSA follow-up, BPH monitoring, post-treatment surveillance.
Medicare coverage
Diagnostic PSA is governed by NCD 190.31, which lists the diagnoses that support the test. Screening is a separate Medicare benefit (NCD 210.1) for men aged 50 and over, allowed once every 12 months. Diagnostic and screening PSA follow different rules, so ask which one is ordered.
Typical price
Medicare allowable around $20–25. Commercial cash prices range from $40 to $200.
Look up the current Medicare allowable for PSA, Total →
Rates and coverage rules shown apply to Original Medicare (Fee-for-Service) only. Medicare Advantage plans may differ. See our data sources →