Will the test save you a trip to the doctor’s office? If not, self-testing won't save you time or money.

Do you know the next step? Don't take a test if you don’t know what you'll do with the information.

Is it FDA-approved? Approval suggests that a test is plausible, fairly accurate, and relatively easy to use.

What does your doctor think? Your doctor may have good reasons for discouraging you from doing home testing. And if you're reluctant to bring up certain issues with your doctor, it's time to look for a new one, not start testing at home.

Will it be covered by insurance? Many aren't, while those your doctor orders usually are.

Read our full report on home medical test kits, watch our video on at-home blood-pressure monitors, and take a look at our latest Ratings on blood-glucose monitors (subscribers only).