Understanding Lab Test Kit Policies and Charges in Maximus
Maximus provides flexible options for managing lab test kits, ensuring transparency in charges and policies. Below, we address common questions and scenarios related to lab test kits, including charges, replacement policies, and subscription details.
Overview of Lab Charges
Skipping Testing: If you decide not to proceed with testing, you will not be automatically billed or sent an at-home lab kit. You can choose to skip providing a lab sample and decide later if you want to complete the labs.
Charges for Lab Kits: You are not charged for every lab kit by default. For example, after completing the required follow-up tests for Testosterone Replacement Therapy, the next scheduled lab is typically the annual lab. Additional charges only apply if a doctor requests an extra test or if you proactively order one. Lab test charges are separate from your subscription fee. Your subscription covers access to the program; individual lab tests are billed independently when applicable.
Quest Labs Cost: If you choose Quest Labs for your blood tests, the cost is $115. Maximus provides a requisition form for you to bring to any Quest Labs location. Note that out-of-pocket fees apply for Quest Labs.
Accidental Orders: If a lab kit is sent due to an accidental order, you can complete and submit the kit without being charged. If you wish to stop automated reminder emails related to an accidental order, contact Maximus support and request that the email sequence be paused.
At-Home Test Kit Costs: Costs for at-home test kits typically range from $99.99 to $149.99, depending on the specific test. Kits are delivered within 2–3 business days, and you can collect the sample at home and return it for processing.
Quest Diagnostics Costs: Costs for Quest Diagnostics lab draws range from $19.99 to $115. A lab requisition form is provided for you to take to your nearest Quest Diagnostics facility.
Policies for Replacement Kits
Replacement Due to Issues: If a replacement lab kit is ordered due to issues with a previous test (e.g., damaged or lost kits), you will not be charged for the replacement. The replacement kit will include the same tests as the original order, including SHBG and free testosterone measurements if those were part of the original test.
Required Tests for Starting or Switching Protocols: To start a Maximus testosterone protocol or switch between topical and oral forms, recent labs (within the last 6 months) must include Total Testosterone, Free Testosterone or SHBG, LH, FSH, PSA, and Hematocrit.
Subscription and Testing Frequency
Injectable Testosterone Plan: For customers on the Injectable Testosterone plan, lab tests are not sent every month. The standard testing schedule is as follows:
Oral Testosterone Protocol: The testing schedule for Oral Testosterone includes an initial test, a follow-up test after 3 days, a final test after 6 days of starting the new treatment, and annual testing unless otherwise requested by your doctor.
Baseline lab (before starting treatment)
Follow-up lab at 1 month after starting treatment
Follow-up lab at 3 months after starting treatment
Annual lab at 12 months after starting treatment and each year thereafter, unless your doctor directs otherwise
Testosterone Therapy Follow-Up Schedule: Follow-up bloodwork is required at months 1, 2, 3, and 12. Advanced bloodwork is needed for months 1, 3, and 12, while Standard bloodwork suffices for month 2. Future labs are generally performed annually or as recommended by your doctor.
When to use Quest Diagnostics
Quest is an in-person blood draw option for customers who prefer not to use the at-home kit, or whose protocol requires tests the at-home kit doesn't support (full hormone panels, metabolic panels, lipid panels, etc.).
What it costs
Costs for Quest Diagnostics lab draws range from $19.99 to $115. A lab requisition form is provided for you to take to your nearest Quest Diagnostics facility. If a Quest location asks you for payment, decline and contact Maximus support — we will resolve it directly with Quest.
How to book your draw
After your clinician orders your labs, you'll receive an email from Maximus with your Quest requisition (a PDF) and a link to find a Quest Patient Service Center near you.
Walk-ins are accepted at most locations, but appointments are recommended and can be booked at QuestDiagnostics.com.
Bring a photo ID and your requisition (digital on your phone is fine — no printing required).
Fast for 8–12 hours before your draw if your requisition says "fasting required." If you're unsure, default to fasting in the morning with water only.
When you'll get results
Quest sends results to Maximus within 2–3 business days of the draw. Your clinician reviews them within 1–2 business days after that. You'll receive an email when results are reviewed and your protocol is updated.
If your draw can't be completed
If Quest is unable to complete your draw (vein access issues, equipment problems, location closed), no charge applies and you can rebook at any Quest location using the same requisition. The requisition is valid for 30 days.
Quest vs. at-home kit
Use the at-home kit when your protocol only requires testosterone (total + free) and you prefer to test at home. Use Quest when your protocol requires a fuller panel, when the at-home kit didn't yield enough sample, or when your clinician specifies an in-person draw.
Options for Managing Lab Tests
Automatic Charges and Shipments: If your account is set to use the At-Home Lab Test Kit option, you will be automatically charged and sent a kit. However, you can switch to the Bring Your Own Labs (BYOL) option. BYOL allows you to submit lab results from your own provider or clinic and manually request lab orders.
Lab Ordering Process: To order a testosterone blood test, log into your Maximus client portal, navigate to the lab test ordering page, and select the Testosterone Test Kit to complete the purchase.
FAQs
Are follow-up labs included in the initial payment?
No, follow-up labs are a separate charge and are not included in the initial payment. They are automatically ordered around 2–3 weeks after treatment begins.
What if I don’t have a nearby participating lab?
You can order a home lab kit to complete the test at home.
Do I need to stop taking Testosterone before completing the follow-up lab kit?
No, you should complete the labs as instructed while continuing your Testosterone unless your doctor advises otherwise.
How much do follow-up labs cost?
Follow-up labs can be purchased separately for $99.99. These labs help track progress and confirm treatment effectiveness.
Will I be charged if I skip testing?
No, you will not be charged or sent a lab kit if you choose to skip testing.
Are lab kits sent every month?
No, lab kits are not sent monthly. For the Injectable Testosterone plan, labs are required yearly after the initial follow-ups unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
What happens if I receive a lab kit due to an accidental order?
You can complete and submit the kit without being charged. To stop automated emails related to the accidental order, contact Maximus support.
Can I avoid automatic charges for lab kits?
Yes, you can switch to the BYOL option, which allows you to manage lab tests through your own provider or clinic.
Is my subscription fee the same as my lab test charge?
No. Your subscription fee covers program access. Lab test charges are separate and only apply in specific circumstances, such as when a doctor orders an additional test or you proactively request one.
Will my replacement kit include the same tests as my original?
Yes. Replacement kits ordered due to errors or issues with a previous test will include the same measurements as the original, including SHBG and free testosterone if applicable.
By understanding these policies, you can make informed decisions about your lab testing needs and avoid unexpected charges. For further assistance, contact Maximus support.