Placing an order
Which test should I choose?
You should choose the test that is right for your needs, symptoms and health concerns. Details of the health biomarkers included in each test can be found on the test pages on our website. If you want an all-round health test, we recommend the Well Woman or Well Man tests which provide the widest range of biomarkers and the best value to check numerous areas of your health.
How does the service work?
We offer a range of test solutions to suit your needs. Some of our tests require a tiny blood sample, and so can be taken at home, or in a clinic, using a finger-prick lancet. These samples can then be either processed using the equipment within the kit, sent to a laboratory, or tested at the clinic site. Other tests require a larger volume of blood to check for more biomarkers. These need to be obtained via a blood sample taken from your vein by a professional, trained clinician, in one of our UK-wide clinic locations. The samples are then sent to a laboratory for thorough testing. If your sample has to be tested at the laboratory, your results will be emailed to you within 5 days of sample receipt at their site.
When will my order arrive?
We dispatch test kits every day from Monday to Friday, excluding Bank Holidays. Standard delivery is 2-3 working days. If you order before 3pm Monday-Thursday and select Express Delivery, we will send your kit out on the same afternoon, for delivery to you on the next working day. Any orders placed over the weekend or on Bank Holidays will be processed on the next working day.
How accurate are your tests?
Our tests are medically-approved and are as accurate as tests you would take in a healthcare facility. Our tests are analysed in a lab which is UKAS accredited, and registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC). In-Clinic tests are completed using analysers that are laboratory-standard in quality, highly reliable and accurate.
I’ve just paid, can I change my order?
If you need to make any changes to your order or your booking, please
contact us and we will see what we can do to help you. Be aware that if you need to cancel your test, you may be charged a cancellation fee.
Can I order a test for someone else?
Yes – please add their details when making your booking, and then your details at the checkout if you need to. Please be aware that our tests are only for customers aged 18 or over.
Why do I need a kit for my appointment?
Many of our clinics hold a stock of blood testing supplies ready for your appointment. We also work with other locations who are qualified to take blood but do not hold blood testing supplies for us. For appointments at those locations, we will send you a complete kit to take to your appointment, which the clinician will use to take a sample of blood from your arm for testing.
How often should I take a test?
We believe it’s most effective to monitor your health regularly over time. So we recommend taking your test every three months. This is the amount of time it typically takes to see the impact of health and lifestyle changes.
Arranging an appointment
How do I book an appointment?
Booking an appointment is simple. On the test page of your choice, click the ‘Book Now’ button to start the booking process. You will then choose the preferred clinic location, date and time for your appointment. Complete your details and then simply checkout to pay for your test.
How is the test carried out?
They can be completed in various ways, depending on the test required. Our more complex blood test samples are typically taken from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. In many clinics we also offer rapid tests for Cholesterol and Diabetes, which use a small finger-prick sample of blood, analysed there and then with an innovative testing device for results whilst you wait. We also offer a range of home tests which you can complete using a tiny lancet on your finger to draw a small blood sample.
Do I need to fast before my test?
No, you do not need to fast before taking our tests. If you are having a test taken on the advice of your GP or another medical professional, please check with them if they have any specific requirements, e.g testing your menstrual cycle, pausing any supplements, etc.
I am nervous about my blood test appointment.
We know that blood tests can be daunting. You are welcome to bring a friend or family member to your appointment for support if you wish. Some customers also like to listen to music or audiobooks the appointment to distract them. If you feel nervous, unwell or faint, please do let the clinician know and they will be pleased to help you.
Do I need to take my kit to my appointment?
If you have requested a venous draw test and have received a test kit for this, please ensure you take the complete test kit with you to your appointment. If you don’t, the clinician will not be able to take your sample.
Completing a Home Test
How do I take my sample?
All of the instructions and helpful tips are included in the test kit. Please take the time to read the instructions thoroughly before you take your sample. Please aim to fill the tube to the upper line if possible. If you have any problems, please
contact us and our helpful team will aim to assist you.
When should I take my sample?
We recommend taking your sample first thing in the morning, from Monday to Thursday, and posting your sample as soon as possible after it’s collected. If you take the test the day, it’s best to post the sample before the last post collection of the day. Please note if you’re taking a testosterone test — it’s important to collect the sample first thing in the morning around 9am, before eating.
Are there any top tips for taking my blood sample?
recommend giving yourself 30 minutes to complete your sample, and doing so from Monday to Thursday. Drink plenty of water for 24 hours before taking your sample to ensure you are well hydrated. Have a warm shower, bath or hold your hand in warm water for at least 5 minutes before taking your test to help blood flow. Make sure your hands are warm and clean. Do some light exercise beforehand too, jumping jacks, brisk walking or jogging on the spot can help increase blood flow. Stand up for the whole process with your arm below your heart – gravity will help the blood flow to your finger. Gently massage your hand in a downwards motion, from just below your wrist to just above the prick on your finger. Do not squeeze too hard as this can damage the blood cells and we won’t be able to analyse your sample. >
What if my kit needs other samples, such as urine?
If your test requires other samples, such as blood and urine or saliva, please follow the instructions within the kit to collect the required samples correctly. If you have any problems, please
contact our helpful team.
I’m having difficulty obtaining enough blood.
Please aim to fill the tube to the upper line if possible. The tips below might help you collect your sample. If you have used all of your lancets and have not managed to fill the sample tube to at least the halfway mark, please let us know as other forms of testing may be more suitable for you. Here are some tips to help:
- Drink a glass of water. Being well hydrated will make it easier to collect your sample.
- Shower before you take your test or run your hands under warm water for a few minutes, as heat improves blood flow.
- Do some light exercise (move around, go for a walk, etc.) to get the blood flowing.
- Make sure your arm is below your heart level – let gravity do some of the work.
- Nails that are too long can make it difficult to collect a sample.
After your test
When do I get my results?
If you have completed a test and the sample has been sent to the laboratory for analysis, you should receive your results within 5 days of it arriving at the laboratory. For an in-clinic rapid test to check Cholesterol or Diabetes, you will receive your results from the clinician your appointment.
My blood was haemolysed - what does that mean?
A haemolysed test result or ‘haemolysis’ can happen when the red blood cells in the sample burst.
How are my results sent to me?
Your results will be sent to you via email, using the email address you provide. For rapid Cholesterol and Diabetes test, which are completed and analysed in-clinic, your results will be given to you on a results card at the end of the appointment.
Do you provide results 7 days a week?
The laboratory analyses samples from Monday to Saturday. Results will be sent to you as soon as they are available, so you may receive them on any day the week, including at weekends.
How do I book a follow up GP consultation?
You can find out more about our online GP Consultation Service
here. Appointments are available at your convenience, from 8am to 8pm, 365 days a year.
