TESTS & RESULTS

Results of tests and investigations

It is really important to find out the result of any tests you have had. Please do not assume it is normal if you do not hear from us. We do contact patients if a result is dangerously abnormal but are unable due do this for every result due to lack of resources.

If you have had a blood or urine test you can phone to check the result.  Please allow 4 working days for test results to be reviewed.  The doctor will leave a message with your results advising if there is a change of plan needed. It is best to ring in the afternoon as the phones are less busy.

Test results

For X-ray/scan results, please allow up to three weeks; once the results are received by us, you will need to make an appointment with your doctor to be given the results. Often a telephone appointment is suitable. It is a good idea to check we have received the result before organising this, you can ask reception this at the time of booking.

 

Blood test

Blood Tests

A blood test is when a sample of blood is taken for testing in a laboratory. Blood tests have a wide range of uses and are one of the most common types of medical test. For example, a blood test can be used to:

  • assess your general state of health
  • confirm the presence of a bacterial or viral infection
  • see how well certain organs, such as the liver and kidneys, are functioning

A blood test usually involves the phlebotomist taking a blood sample from a blood vessel in your arm and the usual place for a sample is the inside of the elbow or wrist, where the veins are relatively close to the surface. Blood samples from children are most commonly taken from the back of the hand. The child's hand will be anaesthetised (numbed) with a special cream before the sample is taken.

You can find out more about blood tests, their purpose and the way they are performed on the  NHS website

 

X-Ray

An X-ray is a widely used diagnostic test to examine the inside of the body. X-rays are a very effective way of detecting problems with bones, such as fractures. They can also often identify problems with soft tissue, such as pneumonia or breast cancer.

If you have a X-ray, you will be asked to lie on a table or stand against a surface so that the part of your body being X-rayed is between the X-ray tube and the photographic plate.

An X-ray is usually carried out by a radiographer, a healthcare professional who specialises in using imaging technology, such as X-rays and ultrasound scanners.

You can find out more about x-ray tests, how they are performed, their function and the risks by visiting the NHS website.

X-ray