Blood Test Referrals & Screening
Blood tests and screenings play a key role in the early detection, monitoring, and management of various conditions, supporting your overall health and enabling you to live a better quality of life. These tests are carried out when clinically indicated by your clinical team , and some may require external referrals for further assessment.
Why are blood tests and screenings important?
Blood tests and screenings play a vital role in maintaining good health. They help with:
- Detecting conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, or anaemia at an early stage
- Monitoring long-term conditions like cardiovascular disease or thyroid disorders to ensure they are well-managed
- Identifying underlying health concerns and supporting accurate diagnosis and treatment
When should I get a blood test?
Your clinical team may refer you for blood tests if deemed clinically necessary in the following situations:
Routine monitoring
If you have a chronic condition, regular blood tests can help track your health. Your GP will advise on the frequency of these.
Symptom investigation
If you are experiencing symptoms that require further investigations, a blood test may help identify the cause.
Preventative health checks
Blood tests may be used to assess risk factors for conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, or thyroid disorders.
Screening services
We offer a range of screening services, which may be conducted on-site or through an external referral arranged by your clinical team, depending on the test required.
Cervical screening
Includes self-swabs and smear tests to detect early signs of cervical abnormalities.
Breast screening
Referral for mammograms to help detect breast cancer at an early stage.
Prostate screening
Involves clinical assessment and, if needed, further tests to monitor prostate health.
Bowel screening
Helps detect early signs of bowel cancer or other digestive conditions.
Heart health screening
Includes blood pressure checks and cholesterol tests to assess cardiovascular risk.
Pregnancy-related screening referrals
Includes ultrasounds (USS) and blood tests to monitor mum and baby’s health.
How it works
Book an appointment with a GP to discuss your concerns. Depending on the issue you’re experiencing, they’ll give you an external referral (e.g. blood tests) or refer you to see a nurse in clinic. If you are booking a standard screening, such as cervical, you can book this with a nurse. If you’re unsure who to book with, please contact your medical centre and chat with our friendly reception team.
Results and follow-up
Your test and screening results will be available on your patient portal once they’ve been processed by the provider you saw. Times may vary depending on the type of test you took. If your test/screening results are normal, we will not contact you. If your test/screening results are abnormal or require further investigation, we will follow up with you directly to discuss these.
How to access our services
Book an appointment online or contact your chosen medical centre to book.
Enrolling as a patient
Seeing a consistent clinical team (GPs, nurses and other healthcare providers from the same practice) every time is proven to give you the best health outcomes. This is especially important if you’re managing a chronic health condition. Trusted by over 400,000 Kiwis, with 65+ medical centres across NZ, we’re your health partner for life. Read more about the benefits of being an enrolled patient or find your closest medical centre today.
Resources and education
There are some great resources and tools available online. Here are our top recommendations:
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