Tuberculosis Testing (TB Test): Employer's Quick Guide
Everything employers need to know about TB Test — who needs it, what's included, and how to find a provider through BlueHive.
At a glance
- Turnaround
- TST: 48-72 hours | IGRA: 24-48 hours
- Typical cost
- $25–$120
- CPT code
- 86580
Best for
- Healthcare & Childcare HR
Find a provider near you
BlueHive routes scheduling to the closest credentialed clinic.
Browse the networkWhat Is TB Test?
TB skin test (TST) or blood test (IGRA) for tuberculosis screening in healthcare and high-risk workers.
Tuberculosis Testing screens for latent TB infection, which is required for healthcare workers, childcare workers, and many other occupations. Two primary testing methods are available: the tuberculin skin test (TST/PPD) and interferon-gamma release assays (IGRAs) blood tests like QuantiFERON-TB Gold.
Who Needs This Service?
- Healthcare workers
- Childcare workers
- Correctional facility employees
- Homeless shelter workers
- Immigration applicants
What's Included
A typical TB Test appointment includes:
- TST (PPD) skin test
- IGRA blood test options
- Single-visit blood test available
- Chest X-ray follow-up if needed
- Digital results and tracking
Turnaround time: TST: 48-72 hours | IGRA: 24-48 hours
Typical cost: $25–$120
How It Works
- Order — Order TB test type (TST or IGRA) through BlueHive.
- Test — TST placed on forearm or blood drawn for IGRA.
- Read/Results — TST read at 48-72 hours; IGRA results in 24-48 hours.
Related Services
Ready to get started? Find a provider for TB Test or learn more about this service.
How TB Test works, step by step
- 1
Order
Order TB test type (TST or IGRA) through BlueHive.
- 2
Test
TST placed on forearm or blood drawn for IGRA.
- 3
Read/Results
TST read at 48-72 hours; IGRA results in 24-48 hours.
- 4
Follow-up
Chest X-ray ordered if positive; documentation provided.
Regulatory snapshot
OSHA TB exposure requirements; CDC guidelines for TB screening in healthcare settings; state health department requirements
Track state-by-state changes in Compliance WatchFrequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
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Content Developer
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Chris Davis is a content developer at BlueHive Health with a background in healthcare operations, medical billing, and small-business management. He writes plain-English guides on OSHA, DOT, and PHMSA compliance for HR and safety leaders.
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