Test Results
You can request test results online, call our enquiries line on 0163 586 7171, or come in person for pathology test results from 11.00am.
The waiting time for a result
Some tests such as finger prick blood tests give instant results and many urine samples can be quickly analysed using a urine dipstick test. If further observations are required, such sample will be sent to the hospital for further tests. Most tests however can take up to 5 working days for results to come back and some special tests may take longer, such as x-ray.
Approximate number of working days for tests ordered at surgery:
- Blood test – 5
- Biopsy – Up to 6 weeks
- CT scan – Discuss with GP
- MRI – Discuss with GP
- Scan – 5
- X-ray – 5
- Urine test – 5
- Swabs – 5 – 10
- Smear test – 2 – 4 weeks
For blood tests it will depend on what the blood is being tested for, so please ask for further information when our Phlebotomist (a qualified technician to draw blood) or one of the practice nurse’s takes a sample of your blood.
Please do allow 2-4 weeks for test results arranged by the hospital or a specialist.
Ask at the hospital how they intend to relay the result to you.
Outcome of the test results
Test results are sent electronically to the practice and are seen and reviewed by the requesting GP (or in the case of absence/holidays by a nominated covering GP). If there is a cause for concern, we will call or write to you within 24 hours of receiving your result.
We will only give results to the person who has had the test. If you would like to check your results, phone the surgery on 01635 867171 between 11.00 and 18.30 Monday to Friday (please allow 5 working days from date of test). We cannot always give full results over the phone. If the result is complicated, or if the doctor wants to see you about the result, we will offer you an appointment or telephone call to discuss results. Your GP or nurse can help you to understand the results. Your test results will only make sense when taking into account your personal medical history, other tests that you have had and your previous test results.
Test results for another patient
In most cases we are only able to give results out to the person they relate to. The only exceptions to this are;
- The patient is under the age of 16. In this instance we are only able to give results out to the legal parent/guardian of the patient.
- The patient has given prior written permission for us to share their results. In this instance a note will be added to the patient’s record advising the reception team who results can be shared with. You may be asked some questions to confirm who you are.
- The patient is incapable of calling for the results themselves. In this instance you should speak to the patient’s GP who will arrange for a note to be added to the patient record advising the reception team who results can be shared with. You may be asked some questions to confirm who you are.
- We appreciate that this can be frustrating but we are bound by strict rules regarding confidentiality and data protection. If you would like us to share your results with another person, you must apply in writing and have the authorisation of the patient in writing accompanied with the signature of the patient.
Types of Tests:
Useful Contacts
View our local hospitals for test results that may have been referred.