Blood Drug Testing

Why don't I receive a copy of my blood test results?

A liver function test was performed & various other blood tests. Should I really have to request the results? I can't even find the results in my online chart.

Public Comments

1. I really never see doctors giving the hard copy results to patients unless they specifically ask for them. They will discuss them with you at an office visit or in the hospital, but not hand you a copy of the results. I always ask for mine and they have no problem providing me with a copy. I agree that people should be handed the results without question or at least asked if they want them, but it just doesn't happen that way. You normally have to ask for them.
2. Most labs fax the results to the doctors, but...since the onset of computers, they may just place the tests results on the computer and the doctors can go in an look at them. It depends on how the labs now handle things. Some people have computer connection to their doctor office and are able to also view their tests results on line. You could ask your doctor if they have this. Each patient is given the name of the site to go to and an password ( which can be changed later) by their doctor office. If the doctor feels that you understand about the blood tests and what the results may mean, then he may agree to type out on the lab instruction form to have the results also faxed to you or you could pick up the results at the lab. There are new rules that this is only if the doctor agrees that the patient should receive these results. (some people get too excited about the results and interpret the wrong ideas when they receive these reports or may not be mentally able to handle what they see) Or, when you go to the doctor, you can ask for a copy to be made. Then you can use that copy to learn more about the tests being done on there and what they may mean by placing the results in this site to look them up: http://www.labtestsonline.org Everyone has lower or higher than normal results and should discuss this thoroughtly with their doctor. It is becoming known, also, that patients will no longer receive a prescription form to go to the pharmacy. The prescriptions will either be faxed from the doctor office to the pharmacy or called into the pharmacy. They are trying to do away with using so much paper. From what I heard, doctor office will be fined if they do not follow these orders. Only in certain circumstances will a written prescription be used...that may or may not include controlled substances because the pharmacy needs written confirmation of the doctor prescribing them...things like narcotic medications. I hope this information has been of some help to you. Best wishes
3. Always tell your doctor to have a copy sent to you. They won't unless you request it .