What Is a Copay in Health Insurance?

A copay (short for copayment) is a fixed dollar amount you pay for a covered healthcare service, usually at the time you receive care. Unlike coinsurance, a copay is the same amount regardless of what the total procedure costs.

Example: Your plan has a $30 copay for primary care visits. Whether your doctor bills $100 or $250 for the visit, you pay exactly $30. Your insurance pays the rest.

Common Copay Amounts (2025)

• Primary care visit: $15–$50
• Specialist visit: $30–$75
• Urgent care: $50–$100
• Emergency room: $100–$350
• Generic prescription: $5–$20
• Brand-name prescription: $30–$100