LabInformationLab tests, explained

Hepatitis Testing in California

This page explains the hepatitis testing, what it measures, and how to arrange it. Hepatitis testing uses a blood sample to look for signs of hepatitis B or hepatitis C infection or to check whether you have protection from hepatitis B. It is often ordered after possible exposure, during routine sexual health screening, or when liver problems are suspected. Across California, part of Pacific, the hepatitis testing can be ordered directly and collected at a certified site — no referral required.

Sample type
blood
Category
Sexual Health
Turnaround
1-3 business days
Price
$239
Referral
Not required

Hepatitis testing uses a blood sample to look for signs of hepatitis B or hepatitis C infection or to check whether you have protection from hepatitis B. It is often ordered after possible exposure, during routine sexual health screening, or when liver problems are suspected.

What it measures

  • Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) — A protein from the virus; a positive result can mean a current infection.
  • Hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs) — Shows protection from vaccination or past infection.
  • Hepatitis B core antibody (anti-HBc) — Can indicate past or current hepatitis B infection.
  • Hepatitis C antibody (anti-HCV) — Screens for past or current hepatitis C exposure.
  • Hepatitis C RNA — Detects current hepatitis C virus when antibody results are positive.

Who it is for

A clinician may order hepatitis testing if you have symptoms, known exposure, abnormal liver tests, or are due for routine screening. It is also common during pregnancy and before certain medical procedures.

Preparation

No fasting is usually required. Tell your clinician about any medications or recent vaccinations, as timing can affect some hepatitis B results.

Results and what they mean

Results are reported as positive, negative, or sometimes indeterminate, with reference ranges on the lab report. A clinician interprets them alongside your history, symptoms, and other tests. This is general information, not medical advice; discuss your results with a qualified healthcare professional.

Requesting the Hepatitis Testing in California

Order online, choose a certified collection site in California, and review results through a secure portal. No referral is required, and orders are processed confidentially. Because the region is uneven, coastal metros, inland towns, and rural counties with very different access to testing — worth planning around when you book.

Frequently asked questions

How long after exposure should I test?

Timing varies by test and virus. Ask your clinician when to test, since some markers take weeks to appear.

Can hepatitis testing be done at home?

Some tests use at-home collection kits, but a clinician should interpret results and arrange follow-up testing if needed.

Is a positive result the same as a diagnosis?

No. Screening results can be positive without current infection, so confirmatory testing is often needed.

Will my results be kept private?

Yes. Lab results are handled confidentially and shared with you and your ordering clinician.

Hepatitis Testing by city in California

All testing in California →   Full Hepatitis Testing guide →