Laboratory tests

DOCTORnow offers an extensive range of private laboratory tests including:

• Blood tests
• Swabs
• Urine tests
• Cervical smears

It is essential for our clinicians to ensure that all medical tests selected are appropriate for you.

There are a number of reasons why a test may be required, therefore, in most cases you will need to book a consultation with one of our GPs before any blood tests are carried out.

If another healthcare professional e.g. Consultant; Nutritionist etc has advised you, for example, to have your blood tested and will interpret the results for you, mention this when booking as in this circumstance you will only need to book a Nurse consultation (n.b. you will need to bring written details from the healthcare professional who has recommended the tests to the appointment with you, detailing which tests are needed).

Processing of samples and getting your results

• Test samples collected by the secure couriers provided by the private laboratory in London.
• Secure and fast turn-around of results – the vast majority of blood tests require a 24 hour turnaround at the laboratory so in most cases your test results will be available the next day.
• The GP or Nurse will agree with you during your consultation how your results will be communicated and will confirm the timeframe in which you can expect to receive them.

How much do tests cost?

The cost varies depending on the type of test you need.  If you know which test(s) you need, we can give you a price over the phone, alternatively if the clinician advises you which tests you need they will be able to give you an indication of the cost before proceeding.

Fees for blood tests are not covered by membership and are additional to any consultation fees.  All fees are payable on the day.

In house tests

We are able to carry out some instant tests at our surgeries during your consultation. This means that you get the results during your consultation, and can start any necessary treatment quickly. We currently offer the following in house tests:

• Strep A – this helps determine whether or not antibiotics are needed to treat some diseases e.g. upper respiratory tract infections including sore throats and tonsillitis
• Influenza A&B – tests for two types of the influenza virus (including swine flu)
• Blood Sugar – test to look for diabetes

In addition, an in house colorectal cancer screen test is available following a consultation with one of our GPs.  The patient takes the test kit home and returns it to the surgery for processing by a GP.  Depending on the time of the day the sample is returned to the surgery, results are usually available the same day.