Blood Test vs. Blood Panel
What is the difference between a blood test and a blood panel?
A blood test measures a single test (or biomarker) in the blood, while a blood panel includes two or more tests to provide a broader view of health.
It is important to note that not all lab panels with the same name include the same markers.
For example, our Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) measures 18 markers to help provide a detailed evaluation of protein balance and kidney function, while the large lab draw centers typically offer just a 14-component CMP panel.
Cost Difference
From a cost perspective, it is generally more economical for a laboratory to run a panel rather than multiple individual tests. If you plan to order several tests within the same category, it is worth checking whether those tests are available as part of a panel.
Not only are panels typically less expensive than ordering each test separately, they often include additional markers that provide more comprehensive insight.
For example, if you are looking into possible nutrient deficiencies and order a Vitamin D test ($100), Zinc test ($80), and Vitamin B12 test ($60), the total cost would be $240. However, the Baseline Micronutrient Panel includes those tests as part of a 7-test panel for $250 which includes four additional nutrient markers: Magnesium ($50 value), Calcium ($40 value), Iron ($50 value), and Ferritin ($50 value).
