Tests and Results

Waiting for test results?

The quickest and easiest way to find out the results of your tests is online — you can view them at a time that suits you, without waiting on the phone. It’s simple, secure, and helps you stay in control of your own care.

Once a doctor has reviewed your test results, you can view them:

• in your NHS account (through the NHS website or NHS App)
• in your SystmOnline account or
• phone us on 01202 897000 after 2 pm.

Accessing Your Test Results

Tests Requested by a Hospital or Clinic

If your test was ordered by a hospital specialist or an outside clinic, please contact that facility directly for your results. Our GPs cannot interpret or “action” tests requested by external clinicians.

If a specialist’s secretary suggests sending the results to your GP, please request them from the specialist instead. They are the experts in that specific field and are in the best position to provide the appropriate follow-up advice.

Tests Requested by Our Surgery

If your test was ordered by one of our GPs, please review the following guidelines before contacting us:

• Confidentiality: Results will only be released to the patient they belong to. Please be prepared to identify yourself. We cannot give results to relatives or friends without prior written consent on file.
• Privacy at Reception: To protect your privacy, our staff will not provide results verbally at the main reception desk.
• Be Specific: Please state exactly which test results you are looking for. Different tests have different processing times; our receptionists may not know if a “full set” is back unless you identify the specific tests you had.
• Reception Role: Our receptionists are not medically trained. They are authorised only to relay the doctor’s comments (e.g., “Normal”). If you require a detailed interpretation or wish to discuss an abnormal result, please book an appointment with your GP.
• Your Responsibility: Due to the high volume of tests we process, we do not routinely contact patients with results. We ask that you take responsibility for following up. However, be assured that a doctor reviews every result and will contact you proactively if there is an urgent concern.

Blood Tests: What to expect

A blood test involves taking a small sample of your blood for laboratory analysis. They are very common and help us:

• Check your general health.
• See if you have a bacterial or viral infection.
• Monitor how well organs like your liver and kidneys are working.

Preparing for Your Test

To help the clinician find a vein easily, please:

• Drink plenty of water before your appointment (staying hydrated makes veins easier to find).
• Wear loose clothing with sleeves that can be easily rolled up past the elbow.
• Follow special instructions: If you have been told to “fast” (not eat or drink) or stop certain medications, please follow this advice strictly. If you do not, we may have to reschedule your test.

During the Test

A phlebotomist (a specialist in taking blood) will usually take the sample from a vein on the inside of your elbow or wrist.

• Children: We usually take samples from the back of the hand. We will apply a numbing cream first so they do not feel any pain.
• Feeling faint: If you have felt faint during a blood test before, please tell the clinician before they start. They can arrange for you to lie down during the procedure.

Getting Your Results

Most blood test results return to the surgery within 48 hours, though some specialized tests may take longer.

Important: Please remember that it is your responsibility to contact the surgery for your results. A doctor will only contact you proactively if there is an urgent concern.

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