Getting your test results
Test results can take up to 7 working days to come back from the laboratory. The clinician who ordered the test will then need to read and interpret the result. If your test results show that you need more tests or treatment, we will contact you. If the result is normal we will not 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 account
- use the Accurx service
- phone us on 01992 654004 or visit us between 11am to 4pm and we will tell you what the results are. Our reception team will be able to tell you if your result is normal and if any further action is required. However, please bear in mind that they are not clinicians, and therefore are unable to discuss any results with you.
Test results conducted outside of the practice
If tests have not been requested by the practice, please consult the clinic where the test was requested/the doctor who requested the tests, for results.
For more information about your test results please contact the hospital, urgent care centre or minor injuries unit where the test was conducted.
Blood Test Results – what do the results of my test mean?
Normal. Take no action – This means that the doctor has looked at the result and deemed it to be within the normal range for the test and so no further investigation or treatment is needed.
Borderline. Take no action – This means that the doctor has looked at the result and deemed it to be just outside of the normal range and the result is not concerning.
Abnormal, but expected. Take no action – This means that the doctor has looked at the result and no further investigation or treatment is needed. This may be for the following reasons:
- The result is in keeping with your known medical condition(s)
- The result has already been discussed with you
- You are already on the correct treatment
- Patient to make a telephone appointment to discuss – The doctor would like to speak to you to explain the result(s) by telephone.
Repeat test – small fluctuations in test results are common and slightly abnormal results usually return to normal without the need for treatment. The GP would like to check your result has returned to normal or remained stable. There should be an indication of how long you should wait before rechecking your blood test.
Patient to pick up script – your test result(s) indicate that you need some medication and there is a prescription ready for you to collect from your nominated pharmacy. There should be an additional comment explaining what the treatment is for, however if you are unsure please book a telephone consultation with the doctor or nurse.
X-Ray
An X-ray is a widely used diagnostic test to examine the inside of the body. X-rays are a very effective way of detecting problems with bones, such as fractures. They can also often identify problems with soft tissue, such as pneumonia or breast cancer.
If you have an X-ray, you will be asked to lie on a table or stand against a surface so that the part of your body being X-rayed is between the X-ray tube and the photographic plate. An X-ray is usually carried out by a radiographer, a healthcare professional who specialises in using imaging technology, such as X-rays and ultrasound scanners.
You can find out more about x-ray tests, how they are performed, their function and the risks by visiting the NHS website X-ray
Urine (wee) Tests
A urinalysis is a test of your urine (wee). A urinalysis is used to detect and manage a wide range of disorders, such as urinary tract infections (UTI), kidney disease and diabetes. A urinalysis involves checking the appearance, concentration and content of urine. Your GP will say if they want you to have this test, and provide you with the necessary collection receptacle.
Unauthorised stool/urine samples will be discarded without testing. Patient to contact and discuss with the clinician before dropping any samples.
Faecal (poo) Tests
A stool (faeces / poo) analysis is a series of tests done on a stool sample to help diagnose certain conditions affecting the digestive tract. These conditions can include infection, inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis, poor nutrient, or cancer. Your GP will say if they want you to have this test, and provide you with the necessary collection receptacle.
How to collect a sample of poo (stool sample)
Unauthorised stool/urine samples will be discarded without testing. Patient to contact and discuss with the clinician before dropping any samples.
Cervical Screening (Smear Tests) What happens at your cervical screening appointment
Minor injuries unit
Cheshunt Community Hospital
King Arthur Court
Cheshunt
EN8 8XN
Phone
01992 622157
Open 8am to 8pm every dayWalk in centre (GP lead)
Spring House Medical Centre
Ascot Lane
Welwyn Garden City
Herts
AL7 4HL
Phone
01707 294 354
Open 8am to 8pm every dayEdgware NHS walk in centre
Edgware Community Hospital
Burnt Oak Broadway
Edgware
Middlesex
HA8 0AD
Phone
020 8732 6459
Open 7am to 9pm every dayNorth Middlesex hospital urgent care centre
Sterling Way
Edmonton
N18 1QX
Phone
020 8887 2000
Opening hours – 8am to 10pmUrgent care centre
Chase Farm Hospital including Urgent Care Centre
The Ridgeway
Enfield
EN2 8JL
Phone
0845 111 4000
Open 8am to 7pm every dayQEII hospital
Howlands
Welwyn Garden City
AL7 4HQ
Phone
01438 314333North Middlesex community hospital urgent care centre
Sterling Way
Edmonton
N18 1QX
Open 8am to 10pm every day
Questions about your results
If you want to talk to someone about your results, use the Accurx service and someone will be in touch.