TB test
in Massachusetts

TB Test FAQs

• What does a positive TB test look like?

  If you have had a TB infection, a large bump will appear on your arm at the injection site when you do the TB skin test. This hump, which may appear red and swollen, suggests that you are infected with tuberculosis bacteria. Your doctor or the TB test provider will measure and examine the bump during your session to determine whether you have TB.

• Where can I get a TB test in Massachusetts?

  Many healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, hospitals, walk-in clinics and laboratories, pharmacies, and urgent care clinics, offer tuberculosis tests. If you have symptoms of an active tuberculosis infection, your doctor may recommend you to a TB test provider. Solv can also assist you in finding the best TB test providers in your area.

• What is a TB test?

  A tuberculosis test confirms whether or not you have had tuberculosis. A skin test and a blood test are the two types of tuberculosis tests available. The skin test includes injecting a protein called PPD derived from tuberculosis germs into your skin to examine how your body reacts to it. A little blood sample is drawn from your arm and sent to a lab for confirmation of the presence of tuberculosis bacteria.

• How long is a TB test good for?

  Whether you test positive or negative for tuberculosis, you should have your test redone every four years. Those who test positive for tuberculosis may be forced to get a chest X-ray before being tested every four years. Based on specific work policies or your symptoms and health status, your employer or doctor may recommend that you undergo a TB test more or less frequently than every four years.

• How much does a TB test cost in Massachusetts?

  The price of a tuberculosis test is determined by several factors, including the type of test, provider rates, geographic region, and whether or not the test is covered by your health insurance plan. To discover more about price and rates, contact each TB test provider directly, or contact your health insurance carrier to learn more about your TB testing benefits and coverage.

• Does insurance cover TB testing in Massachusetts?

  Many health insurance policies include tuberculosis testing, especially if your doctor thinks it medically necessary based on your symptoms or level of exposure to tuberculosis patients. If TB testing is necessary at your workplace, some employers may reimburse the expense. To discover more about your TB test benefits and coverage, contact your health insurance provider directly.

• How often do you need a TB test in Massachusetts?

  Employees who are required to be tested for tuberculosis are normally screened every four years by their employers. If you spend time with someone who has TB or have been to a location where TB is frequent and widespread, such as Africa or Russia, your doctor may recommend regular TB test. Based on these considerations, ask your employer or doctor how often you should undergo a tuberculosis test.

• How long does a TB test take?

  Because it involves extracting a little sample of blood from your arm, the TB blood test normally takes less than five minutes. The TB skin test takes a few minutes as well, but you must return to the clinic 48 to 72 hours later to have the injection site checked for a reaction. When you phone to make an appointment for a tuberculosis test, the provider can offer you a more accurate time estimate.

• How can I book a TB test through Solv?

  With Solv, scheduling a tuberculosis test is simple and quick. Go to the Solv Home page, type "TB test" in the search box, and then choose your location from the dropdown menu on the right. Solv will provide you a list of top-rated TB test providers in your neighborhood who can help you. Choose your preferred TB test provider, then contact them using the information provided to schedule an appointment.

• Can I do at-home TB testing?

  TB test kits that allow you to test for TB at home are now unavailable. Some healthcare providers, however, may come to your home to administer a tuberculosis test, albeit this service may be limited to people who are physically unable to leave their homes. If you or a loved one is unable to leave the house to take the test, ask your doctor for further information about the potential of at-home TB testing.