At-home heart health tests are a simple and affordable way to keep an eye on your heart without leaving home. These tests check key risk factors for heart disease, including:
- Total cholesterol
- HDL (high-density lipoprotein, or “good” cholesterol)
- LDL (low-density lipoprotein, or “bad” cholesterol)
- Triglycerides (a type of fat in your blood)
- Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c)—a measure of your average blood sugar over the past three months
Most tests require just a quick finger-prick blood sample, which you mail to a lab. Within a few days, you’ll get your results online or through an app—no doctor’s visit needed.
Best At-Home Heart Health Tests
Best for Follow-Up Care
LetsGetChecked Diabetes and Heart Test
- Results in: 2–5 days
- Collection method: Finger prick
- Tests for: Total cholesterol, LDL, HDL (and HDL % of total cholesterol), hemoglobin A1C, triglycerides, lipoprotein (a)
- Price: $99.00
- Use code “HEALTHLINE25” for 25% off
Healthline’s Review
This finger-prick test checks your triglycerides, total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, A1C, and lipoprotein (a)—a type of LDL linked to hereditary heart disease risk.
If your cholesterol is high, you can enroll in the Cholesterol CarePathway for $39/month (first year). This includes follow-up tests, expert-reviewed results, and ongoing support.
The kit has everything you need: instructions, lancets, a blood collection tube, a biohazard bag, and a prepaid return envelope. Results appear in your secure online account within 2–5 days.
Best for Cholesterol & Lipids
Everlywell Cholesterol & Lipids Test
- Rating: 4.9 (396+ reviews)
- Collection method: Finger prick
- Results in: A few days
- Tests for: Total cholesterol, HDL, calculated LDL, triglycerides
- Price: $49.00
- Use code “HEALTHLINE25” for 25% off
Healthline’s Review
This test measures total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and triglycerides. Everlywell also offers a $39/month membership for regular testing, though it doesn’t include nurse support like LetsGetChecked.
Packaging is discreet, and results are ready in 2–5 days via a secure online portal.
Best for Testing A1C & CRP
Everlywell Heart Health Test
- Rating: 4.9 (235+ reviews)
- Collection method: Finger prick
- Results in: A few days
- Tests for: Total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides, HbA1c, CRP
- Price: $99.00
- Use code “HEALTHLINE25” for 25% off[SHOP NOW AT EVERLYWELL]
- Price may vary.
Healthline’s Review
This is a more comprehensive test than Everlywell’s Cholesterol & Lipids option, adding C-reactive protein (CRP)—a marker of inflammation tied to heart disease—and HbA1c (3-month blood sugar average).
High CRP may signal heart risk, while HbA1c helps diagnose or manage diabetes.
Comparing Home Heart Health Tests
| Test | Price | Tests For |
|---|---|---|
| LetsGetChecked Diabetes & Heart Test | $99 | Total cholesterol, LDL, HDL (and %), HbA1C, triglycerides, lipoprotein (a) |
| Everlywell Cholesterol & Lipids Test | $49 | Total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides |
| Everlywell Heart Health Test | $99 | Total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides, CRP, HbA1c |
Pros of At-Home Heart Health Tests
✅ No need to visit a doctor or leave home.
✅ Often cheaper than clinic tests.
✅ Just as accurate as traditional lab tests.
Cons of At-Home Heart Health Tests
❌ You have to collect your own blood sample.
❌ Less personalized guidance than an in-person visit.
❌ Privacy concerns with mailing samples.
How We Chose These Tests
Healthline picked the best based on:
- Lab quality: CLIA-certified labs (meeting federal standards).
- Accuracy: Reliable, trusted results.
- Cost: Affordable options.
- Reviews: Positive customer feedback.
- Privacy: Secure data and discreet packaging.
- Speed: Fast digital results.
Who Should Take a Heart Test?
Almost everyone! The American Heart Association recommends cholesterol checks every 4–6 years after age 20 (if low-risk). But if you have family history, obesity, or heart disease, test more often.
At-home tests are great for:
- Convenient, budget-friendly monitoring.
- Those without easy doctor access.
- Starting conversations with your doctor about heart health.
Signs of an Unhealthy Heart
Watch for:
- Fast/irregular heartbeat
- Extreme fatigue
- Swollen ankles
- Shortness of breath
- Chest, arm, jaw, or back pain
- Sweating
- Stomach pain/indigestio
How to Use an At-Home Heart Test
- Order a kit online.
- Register it when it arrives.
- Read instructions fully.
- Clean your fingertip with the provided swab.
- Prick your finger with the lancet.
- Collect blood in the tube.
- Mail it back in the prepaid envelope.
- Wait for results (usually 2–5 days).
Understanding Your Results
The CDC recommends these optimal levels (mg/dL):
- Total cholesterol: ≤150
- LDL: ≤100
- HDL: ≥50 (women) / ≥40 (men)
- Triglycerides: <150
If your numbers are off, consult a doctor. They may suggest lifestyle changes, medication, or further tests (like an ECG).
When to See a Doctor
- If results are confusing or abnormal.
- For personalized advice on diet, exercise, or meds.
- If you need advanced testing (e.g., stress test).
Remember: At-home tests don’t replace medical care—they help you stay informed.
FAQs
Does insurance cover these tests?
Check with your provider—some may reimburse you.
Are they safe?
Yes, if you follow instructions and use CLIA-certified labs.
How do they compare to in-person tests?
Just as accurate for cholesterol/lipids, but clinics can detect other issues.
Takeaway
At-home heart tests are an easy, private, and cost-effective way to track your heart health. If results are concerning, many companies offer free clinician consultations.
But always follow up with a doctor for conditions these tests can’t catch. Your heart deserves the best care!