5 Things to Check When You’re Getting Lab Testing Services

Updated on March 30, 2022

Lab testing is a vital part of maintaining your health and well-being. Blood tests, for example, can help you detect and monitor health conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease. The blood testing market can grow at a CAGR of 5.2% between the forecast period of 2021-2026.

However, it’s essential to make sure that you choose the right lab testing services for your needs. There are many different labs out there, and not all of them offer the same services or quality of care. 

This article will discuss five things to check when getting lab testing services. It will ensure that you get the best possible care and results.

1) Make Sure the Lab Is Accredited

When choosing a lab, the first thing you should do is to make sure it is accredited. Accreditation guarantees that the lab has been inspected and meets specific standards. It is essential because it ensures that the lab is reliable and uses quality procedures.

There are a few different accreditation organizations, so be sure to find a reputable one by thorough research. The most well-known organization is the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA).

Lab testing is an essential part of healthcare, so you want to trust the lab you’re working with. You can rest assured that the lab will meet high standards and provide accurate results.

2)  Find Out What Kind of Tests the Lab Offers

Once you’ve verified that the lab is accredited, look at the types of tests they offer. Ensure that the lab offers specific tests that you’re looking for. 

Some standard lab tests are explained below:

a) A complete blood count (CBC) measures the cells that make up your blood: red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

b) A basic metabolic panel (BMP) is a group of tests that measure your sugar (glucose) level, electrolyte and fluid balance, kidney function, and carbon dioxide levels.

c) A lipid panel measures the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in your blood.

d) A thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) test measures how much TSH is in your blood. TSH is a hormone that helps control the thyroid gland.

e) An electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) is a test that measures the electrical activity of your heart.

f) A urinalysis is a test that checks your urine for signs of disease or infection.

g) A stool sample may be collected to check for blood, bacteria, and parasites in your stool (poop).

h) A blood sugar test measures the amount of sugar (glucose) in your blood.

i) A pregnancy test measures the level of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in your blood or urine. hCG is a hormone produced during pregnancy.

Ask your doctor or healthcare provider if you’re unsure which tests you need. They can order a specific list.

3)  Compare Prices

While accreditation and test offerings are essential, you also need to consider the cost of the tests. Some insurance plans cover the cost of laboratory testing, but many do not. 

Even if your insurance plan covers the cost of the tests, you may still be responsible for paying a copay or deductible. When comparing prices, ask about any hidden fees that may not be included in the advertised price.

You must find labs that offer the most competitive pricing in the industry without sacrificing the quality or customer service. In addition, you can check for discounts for the customers who pay cash and do not use insurance.

4) Check the Hygiene of the Facility

Lab testing facilities should maintain high standards of hygiene and cleanliness. Make sure to ask about the cleaning procedures in place and look for visibly clean surfaces and equipment.

Lab technicians should also wear gloves and use sterile equipment when drawing blood or handling other specimens. If you have any concerns regarding hygiene at a lab facility, don’t hesitate to speak up.

Some of the safety features you must check are: 

-Are the floors clean and dry? 

-Can you see dust and dirt in the air? 

-Is anything being recycled properly (including sharps)? 

If you have any doubts about a facility’s safety features, ask to speak with someone from the lab’s management. They should be happy to address any of your concerns.

5) Check the Quality of the Lab’s Equipment

Lab testing facilities should use high-quality equipment to ensure accurate results. Make sure to ask about the lab’s equipment and how often it’s calibrated.

You should also ask about the lab’s procedures for handling and storing specimens. Specimens must be stored properly to prevent contamination.

Conclusion

Labs are an essential part of the healthcare system, and you must find a reputable one to provide you with accurate results. It is crucial to find the best labs for you and your family.

The Editorial Team at Healthcare Business Today is made up of skilled healthcare writers and experts, led by our managing editor, Daniel Casciato, who has over 25 years of experience in healthcare writing. Since 1998, we have produced compelling and informative content for numerous publications, establishing ourselves as a trusted resource for health and wellness information. We offer readers access to fresh health, medicine, science, and technology developments and the latest in patient news, emphasizing how these developments affect our lives.