Tests & Results

Specimens (such as urine/stool samples) for testing at the hospital laboratory are typically collected daily by 11am from each site.

Samples must be placed in the correct specimen container, which can be obtained from the surgery; otherwise, the lab may be unable to process them.

The easiest way to access your test results is through the NHS App, your results will be added to the app as soon as they have been reviewed.

Alternatively, if you would like to talk to someone about your results please call after 2pm, but we ask that you allow at least 3 working days after a test before doing so.

Please note we will not contact patients regarding their test results unless there is a clinical need or significant abnormality.

Blood tests are commonly ordered by your GP or healthcare professional to diagnose or rule out diseases, monitor long-term conditions (like diabetes or heart disease), check the effects of medications, or identify potential future health issues (like high cholesterol).

A doctor reviews all test results, noting if they are normal or if further action is needed. Results from hospital tests are not automatically added to your GP record. If there’s an urgent abnormal result, we’ll contact you. Otherwise, if the result suggests you should discuss it with your GP, you will need to arrange a consultation.

You can view your test results and the GP’s comments on the NHS App!

Key points about blood test results:

• Lab results include a reference range, indicating the typical values from healthy individuals. A result slightly outside this range may still be normal.
• Normal results can rule out certain issues (e.g., a normal full blood count means no anemia, and normal thyroid tests indicate no thyroid problems).
• A normal result doesn’t guarantee there’s nothing wrong, as some conditions (like certain cancers) may not be detectable through blood tests. This is why screening programs are important.
• Abnormal results, especially those outside the reference range, are evaluated in the context of your symptoms. A doctor may request a repeat test if the result is unexpected.