Test Results

Tests results are returned to our surgery via the post or computer. The time it takes to receive results varies.

All results are normally seen by our doctors and checked before the results can be given to the patients by our reception staff. If the result is not entirely normal you will asked to make an appointment with your doctor or speak to your doctor on the phone.

Although we aim to check every result, occasionally we may not receive a result, we therefore urge patients to contact us to be sure the result has been received and checked by the doctor.

Please allow enough time for the result to be sent to us, as a guide:

• Routine blood tests – 5 days (some more complex tests may take longer as they may have to be sent to a different lab – your GP will advise you when they arrange the test)
• X-rays – 2-3 weeks
• Ultrasound scans – 2-3 weeks
• Urine tests and swabs for infection – 5 days
• Smears – 6 weeks

Please phone after 10:00 when the phone lines are less busy.

Hospital Test Results

If you have had a test arranged by a hospital doctor we will not automatically receive a copy of the result.

We may be able to request your results but this can take a few days. Please check with reception before making an appointment to discuss your hospital test.

Confidentiality

Please note that we do have a strict policy regarding confidentiality and data protection. In this respect we will only give out results to the person they relate to unless that person has given prior permission for their release or if they are not capable of understanding them.