Test results can take up to 7 working days to come back from the laboratory. The clinician who ordered the test will then need to read and interpret the result. If the result is normal we will not contact you.
Our reception team will be able to tell you if your result is normal and if any further action is required. However, please bear in mind that they are not clinicians, and therefore are unable to discuss any results with you.
Please note that we cannot report on any tests that were taken by another service, i.e. a hospital or other community services. You will need to contact the service that originally requested the test to obtain your result.
Please note that we do not have direct access to hospital letters and test results. It may take some time for this information to appear on your GP records.
Warfarin & INR results
If you are on warfarin therapy, please ensure that you continue to attend for your warfarin INR tests as instructed by the anticoagulation service. However, you no longer need to submit your warfarin INR test results to us as we now receive these direct from the hospital.
It is very important to attend for your INR blood test to ensure your safety whilst taking warfarin.
Non-urgent advice: How can I get my Test Results?
You can get your test results by:
· Calling the surgery after 2pm
· Submitting a query on our contact form
Blood Test Results – what do the results of my test mean?
Normal. Take no action – This means that the doctor has looked at the result and deemed it to be within the normal range for the test and so no further investigation or treatment is needed.
Borderline. Take no action – This means that the doctor has looked at the result and deemed it to be just outside of the normal range and the result is not concerning.
Abnormal, but expected. Take no action – This means that the doctor has looked at the result and no further investigation or treatment is needed. This may be for the following reasons:
- The result is in keeping with your known medical condition(s)
- The result has already been discussed with you
- You are already on the correct treatment
- Patient to make a telephone appointment to discuss – The doctor would like to speak to you to explain the result(s) by telephone.
Repeat test – small fluctuations in test results are common and slightly abnormal results usually return to normal without the need for treatment. The GP would like to check your result has returned to normal or remained stable. There should be an indication of how long you should wait before rechecking your blood test.
Patient to pick up script – your test result(s) indicate that you need some medication and there is a prescription ready for you to collect. There should be an additional comment explaining what the treatment is for, however if you are unsure please book a telephone consultation with the doctor or nurse.
Due annual diabetic review – the surgery will contact you to arrange a time for you to come in and discuss your blood results during your annual diabetic review.
Other Investigations
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 an 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.
Cervical Screening (Smear Tests)
05.05.2022 – please note that we have been informed that there is currently a 4-week delay in the processing of smear results.
What happens at a cervical screening appointment – NHS – NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Urine (wee) Tests
A urinalysis is a test of your urine (wee). A urinalysis is used to detect and manage a wide range of disorders, such as urinary tract infections (UTI), kidney disease and diabetes. A urinalysis involves checking the appearance, concentration and content of urine. Your GP will say if they want you to have this test, and provide you with the necessary collection receptacle.
How should I collect and store a pee (urine) sample? – NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Unauthorised stool/urine samples will be discarded without testing. Patient to contact and discuss with the clinician before dropping any samples.
Faecal (poo) Tests
A stool (faeces / poo) analysis is a series of tests done on a stool sample to help diagnose certain conditions affecting the digestive tract. These conditions can include infection, inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis, poor nutrient, or cancer. Your GP will say if they want you to have this test, and provide you with the necessary collection receptacle.
How should I collect and store a poo (stool) sample? – NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Unauthorised stool/urine samples will be discarded without testing. Patient to contact and discuss with the clinician before dropping any samples.
Last update May 2022