Procedures/Processes
Pathology Tests
From time to time pathology tests will be ordered by your doctor to assist with diagnosis and monitoring your conditions. Most commonly these will be blood or urine tests. It is essential that the samples are collected correctly and transported to the laboratory correctly to ensure that the results are accurate. In the laboratory a complex series of processes occurs before the results are returned to the doctor. Fortunately there are strict quality control and regulatory processes around these system to ensure that the results are reliable and accurate. More details can be found at http://www.labtestsonline.org.au which is an Australian Government funded site supported by the Royal College of Pathologists.
You need to refrain from having food and drink (other than water or tea and coffee without milk or sugar) for at least 8 hours. Generally you can take your usual medications unless instructed not to by your doctor.
What does fasting mean
Which lab do I use
You can use your pathology request form provided by our doctor at any pathology provider and at any location.
How long does it take to get results back
Most blood test results are available within 24 hours. Some more complicated tests can take up to a week. Urine results can take up to 3 days.
Do I need to come back for the results
Yes, unless instructed otherwise by our doctor.
Can I get my results
We have requested the laboratories to send you a copy of the results by post. You can also request a copy at the time of the specimen collection from the laboratory staff.
Will I be billed for the tests
Most laboratories will bulk bill their services but this is subject to change.