Pros and Cons of PlushCare
What we like about PlushCare:
- PlushCare accepts most insurance.
- Tests are performed by two of the nation’s leading labs.
- Patients have access to hundreds of diagnostic tests.
- Rates start at $5 per test through Quest.
- Easy-to-use online portal with test results.
The drawbacks of PlushCare:
- Lab orders require a visit to a local testing center.
- Customers cannot choose which provider orders are sent to.
- Some patients have reported billing and insurance issues.
- Prices vary depending on the lab and/or test ordered.
- Customers must pay for a doctor’s appointment to request labs.
What kinds of tests does PlushCare offer?
If you’re concerned about a specific medical issue or are interested in maintaining your overall wellness through preventive health screenings, the first step is to schedule an appointment with a PlushCare physician. Your medical provider will provide an order for any required tests that can be completed at a Quest or Labcorp location in your area. Here are a few of the testing services that PlushCare offers:
- Allergies
- General wellness
- Health risk testing
- Hormones
- Infectious diseases
- Liver and kidney function
- STDs/STIs
- Thyroid function
- Vitamins and minerals
| Test type | What tests are available? | Price |
| COVID | At-home test kits | Appointment fee plus $125 |
| STD Testing | Lab orders for chlamydia, HIV, gonorrhea, herpes, and other sexually transmitted infections | Appointment fee plus variable lab costs |
| Wellness | Nearly any test offered by Labcorp or Quest Diagnostics | Appointment fee plus lab costs starting at $5 |
Is PlushCare the Best At-Home Test?
Compare PlushCare to other popular testing brands:
| Company | Available tests | Price range | Insurance accepted | Results time | Location |
| Plushcare Rating: 4.7/5 |
30+ | $99 annual membership plus visit fee; labs $5 each | Yes | 3 to 5 | Local lab |
| Nurx Rating: 4.8/5 |
7 | $30 to $220 | Yes | 2 to 5 | Home |
| Everlywell Rating: 4.7/5 |
30+ | $49.99 to $200 and up | No | 5 days | Home |
| HealthLabs Rating: 4.7/5 |
100+ | $28 to $939 | No | 1 to 2 | Local lab |
| LetsGetChecked Rating: 4.7/5 |
30+ | $69 to $349 | No | 2 to 5 | Home |
| MyLAB Box Rating: 4.8/5 |
40+ | $32 to $499 | No | 1 to 5 | Home |
| STDcheck Rating: 4.5/5 |
10+ | $24 to $258 | No | 1 to 2 | Local lab |
Methodology: Ratings are based on trust, cost, convenience, and comprehensive service. All test options use CLIA certified labs. Cost ratings are based on affordability compared to other testing options and insurance acceptance. Convenience is rated on the results time and testing location. Comprehensive service rates the number of available tests and the opportunity for physician support. Overall rating is an unweighted average of all rating factors.
How does PlushCare testing work?
Where is the testing done?
PlushCare sends lab orders to Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp. Specimens required for blood and urine tests or other diagnostic services can be collected at any facility in the provider’s network. You’ll need a copy of the lab order and a valid photo ID.
Do I need a prescription?
Your provider will follow-up with you to discuss your results and your treatment plan, which may include a prescription medication if necessary.
Do they take insurance?
Yes, PlushCare accepts most insurance plans, including Cigna and Blue Cross Blue Shield. A copay is required. PlushCare offers noninsurance visits for just $99, in addition to a one-time membership fee. Lab tests for self-pay clients start at $5, thanks to an exclusive agreement with Quest.
Will they connect me with a health care provider?
Yes, you will work with a medical professional throughout the process. All lab work provided by PlushCare is physician-ordered rather than self-directed. Providers work one-on-one with you to determine which tests are medically necessary. They interpret the results and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Are test results accurate?
Labcorp and Quest Diagnostics meet stringent standards for quality and accuracy. These companies have proprietary systems for reviewing test results and preventing data processing errors. They also have cutting-edge equipment to help patients benefit from the latest breakthroughs in clinical testing.
Interested in one of these tests?
What Customers Say About PlushCare
Positive reviews about PlushCare
“Plush Care Doctors have been able to prescribe and assure my heath through blood testing and Cologuard screening. Kudos Plush Care!!”
“It was easy to set up an appointment, easy to talk with a doctor, obtain requests for lab work and refill prescriptions all in the comfort of your home. I love it.”
“Very good the doctors listen and really care about you they even send you for tests if needed and give you the results right away.”
Negative reviews about PlushCare
“I was very pleased with the doctor, and the overall experience. The only qualm I have is I would have preferred to choose which lab to have had my tests sent to.”
“Great assessment and initial service by the physician who ordered my test, but very disappointed to learn that they received my lab results from Labcorp at 7 a.m. on Friday morning and it’s now 6 p.m. on Monday and they still haven’t delivered my results or answered my messages.”
“Ordered lab test in excess of what my PPO covered. I have good insurance so this came as a surprise when I received EOB stating test not covered due to them not being necessary.”
PlushCare Bottom Line
PlushCare’s medical team can help you access nearly any diagnostic test to detect active medical conditions, assess your future health risk, and help you maintain your overall well-being. A doctor’s appointment is required to obtain lab work, which is performed locally, but most patients say that the process is quick and easy from start to finish.
