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 view them:
- in your NHS account (through the NHS website or NHS App)
- in your SystmOnline or Airmid UK app
- phone or visit us between 10am to 4pm and we will tell you what the results are showing
Questions about your results
If you want to talk to someone about your results, please submit Admin Queary on AccuRx and someone will be in touch.
Key Points About Your Results
Normal Ranges: A result outside the normal range doesn’t always mean there’s a problem; these ranges are just guidelines.
Normal Results: Even if all your results are normal, it doesn’t guarantee you have no health concerns.
Timing: Not all results come back at the same time. We might be waiting on some before contacting you.
Comments: Notes on your results are often for doctors, not patients. They may not be clear to you.
Follow-Up: Always follow your doctor’s advice and look for their comments, as they may contain important information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the normal ranges for tests? You can find the normal ranges on your lab report, usually next to your results. These ranges are standard but might not apply to everyone due to factors like age, gender, or health conditions.
What if my result is outside the normal range? Your GP will look at your results alongside your medical history and other tests. A single abnormal result may not mean there’s a problem, but it could require further investigation.
If my results are normal, am I okay? Normal results are a positive sign, but they only show a snapshot of your health. There can still be hidden issues, so continue to maintain a healthy lifestyle and follow your doctor’s advice.
If my result is abnormal, do I have a health issue? Not necessarily. An abnormal result means your doctor will look closer, but it doesn’t always indicate a specific health problem. Sometimes, results can be outside the normal range for various reasons, and retesting may be needed.
What happens after I have a blood test?
Blood samples are sent to a lab for analysis. We’ll contact you based on your results:
Urgent issues: We’ll call you right away.
Non-urgent issues: We’ll reach out within a reasonable time.
Normal results: We do not normally contact patients with normal results unless these are unexpected.
You can also check your results on the NHS App or contact us if you have questions.
Why do results take so long?
Your doctor or nurse will give you an estimate for how long your test results will take. Most tests are done within a week, but some may take longer.
Doctor’s Comments Explained
Speak to doctor: The doctor wants to discuss your results with you, their secretary will usually be in touch to arrange this.
Speak to nurse: The doctor wants you to speak to a nurse, their secretary will usually be in touch to arrange this.
Repeat Test: They want to check if your results have changed.
Take no action: Your results are normal; no further action is required.
Patient to pick up script: A prescription has been issued to you nominated pharmacy (e.g. for a water infection ect..)
Communicate with patient: A member of the practice admin team will be in touch regarding the results.
Satisfactory: Results are slightly off but not concerning.
Inadequate Specimen: Your sample was unusable, and you may need to retest.
Borderline: The result does not necessarily indicate a problem and will probably need to be repeated.