Getting your test results
If your test results show that you need more tests or treatment, we will contact you.
Once a doctor has reviewed your test results, you can access them by:
- using your NHS account (through the NHS website or NHS App)
- phoning or visiting us during our opening hours
Understanding your blood test results
We want to make sure you are informed and empowered when it comes to your health.
Your health record is a vital tool, written and used by medical professionals to provide you with the best possible care. This means that there might be times you don’t understand everything you see. We’ve provided this information to help you to understand your blood test results. However, if you have any additional questions, please don’t hesitate to contact a member of our team.
Important information about your results
- Your test results are just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to your health. Your doctor will consider other factors like your medical history and symptoms to get the full picture.
- We might not get all your blood results back at the same time. We may need to wait for all results before getting in touch with you.
- Sometimes, if a test result is not in the expected range, it doesn’t necessarily mean something is wrong. These ranges are just guidelines.
- Even if all your results fall within the expected range, it doesn’t guarantee everything is fine. There could still be issues to consider.
- Sometimes, you’ll see comments added to your results. These could be from a computer or a laboratory scientist. These comments are usually meant for the doctor who requested the test, so they might not make much sense to you.
- Check for any comments we add to your results. They often contain important information about your test and what it means. We’ll explain some of the common comments you might see.
- Lastly, don’t be afraid to speak up. If you have concerns or questions about your results or treatment plan, let us know. This helps us give you the best possible care.
I have had my blood test, what happens next?
- Blood samples and other tests are sent to a hospital laboratory for analysis daily.
- If your result needs urgent attention, we’ll give you a call to talk about what to do next. If it’s less urgent, we’ll get in touch within a reasonable time frame.
- If your result is normal or if the doctor has additional information for you, we may send you a text message.
- We try to keep you informed about all results, but if there’s no need for action, we might not contact you. However, you can always check your results on the NHS App.
- Comments attached to your results provide valuable information about your health. They may indicate the need for further action or follow-up.
- If you want to discuss your results with a doctor or nurse, just let the receptionist know. They’ll pass on the message, and you’ll either get a call or be asked to schedule an appointment.
Where can I find the reference ranges (normal ranges) for my test results, and how do I interpret them?
Reference ranges can be found on your laboratory report, usually to the right of your results. These ranges are standardised but may not apply to everyone, as they don’t consider things like your gender, age, ethnicity, or health conditions.
Results outside of the range:
While a result outside of the reference range may trigger a flag by a computer, it’s essential to remember that what’s normal for you may differ. Therefore, it’s crucial to rely on your doctor’s interpretation of the results and follow their advice. Your doctor will evaluate your results by also looking at other factors to work out their significance.
What do the doctor’s comments mean?
Normal
Your doctor has looked at your result and found it to be within the normal range. No further investigation or treatment is required.
Abnormal
Your doctor has looked at your result and found it to be abnormal. Your result is outside the normal range, which may indicate a potential issue that needs further investigation.
Abnormal but expected
Your doctor has looked at your result and found it to be outside the normal range, but this was expected because of your medical condition or treatment.
Satisfactory
Your doctor has looked at the result and although it is outside of the normal range, the result is not concerning. No further investigation or treatment is needed.
Borderline
Your doctor has looked at your result and found it to be borderline. Your result is very close to the edge of the normal range. This may not be concerning, but it may mean the test needs repeating.
Inadequate or unusable specimen
There have been issues with the sample and a repeat test may be needed.
Unknown
This is used when the results of the test are not known.
Follow up actions
No Action
No further investigation or treatment is required.
Appointment to see Dr/Nurse
This means that either the doctor or nurse needs to discuss the results with you to either see if your symptoms match up with the blood result, offer you further investigation or discuss treatment options. We will call you to book an appointment or send you a link to book one.
Speak to Dr/Nurse
This means that your blood results need discussing with either a doctor or nurse. We will call you to book an appointment or send you a link to book one.
Repeat Test
Sometimes when there are slight abnormalities in your results, it may need to be repeated to establish if there is a pattern of abnormality.
Patient to pick up script
In some situations, your results will mean you need a prescription for a new medication. When this is done, we will let you know when to pick up your new medication.
Communicate with patient
This means that the clinician has looked at your results and has some information to pass across to you.
Further useful information
Follow the links below for guides to help you understand specific tests.
Guides to using the NHS app: