Laboratory Testing

An appointment is not necessary unless the test is a glucose tolerance, lactose tolerance, sweat chloride, platelet aggregation, cytogenetic, D-xylose or NBT Test.

Check in with the receptionist. You will be asked to present your physician’s script with the diagnosis, your identification, and your insurance information.

You do not have to fast unless your doctor has ordered a fasting glucose, fasting lipid panel, fasting metabolic panel, fasting cholesterol, HDL or triglyceride.

If your doctor did not tell you how long to fast, you should not eat or drink anything for approximately 12 hours prior to the test. Fasting means you should not eat or drink any liquids except for water. Drink plenty of water before your lab test to avoid dehydration.

If you are having your lab test in the early morning take your medications right after the labs are drawn. If you are having labs drawn later in the day, take your medications with a few sips of water.

We prefer that you do not have your blood drawn if the doctor requested fasting labs. The labs would not be accurate is the doctor requested fasting labs.

Lab tests are done to diagnose medical conditions, for health screening and to monitor treatment.

Your doctor may want to confirm the results for a prior test, or to monitor the status of a disease or treatment.

Most tests are completed in 24 hours, although some special tests may take longer. Depending on the test performed, most tests are completed and reported to your ordering healthcare provider within about 24 hours of receiving the sample for testing. Certain tests take several days to weeks. Results are sent directly to the ordering healthcare professional. Please ask your healthcare provider to contact you when your test results have been received.

Yes, please check in with the receptionist as soon as you arrive.

Sorry, we cannot interpret test results.  Your doctor will review your lab test and go over the results with you at your next visit. Lab test are reviewed daily. If labs are abnormal you may be asked to come in early.

You can contact your physician and request a printed copy of your lab report.

Patients cannot order tests themselves, but if you are interested in having a specific laboratory test performed, please ask your healthcare provider if the test is appropriate for you, and if he/she can order the test(s) for you.

Visit a receptionist or a billing specialist if you have questions regarding your bill or need to update your insurance information with our office. 
Discounts are offered for labs paid on the day of service.  Visit FAQ – Billing for all billing-related questions and answers.