All Medicare-eligible consultations are bulk billed for patients with a valid Medicare card. Some items, including privately purchased vaccines and consumables, attract a fee.
A blood test measures something specific. A full blood count looks at red cells, white cells and platelets. A cholesterol panel needs fasting for accurate triglycerides. HbA1c shows average blood sugar over roughly three months. Thyroid, kidney, liver and iron tests each answer their own question.
Reference ranges are the middle of what most healthy people fall within, which means a normal person can sit slightly outside one. A single number just outside the range is usually not the alarming thing it looks like. Trends over time are far more informative than any one result.
Water only means water onlyBlack coffee and tea both affect some results. If you are fasting, plain water is the only thing that does not count.
For cholesterol and some glucose tests, generally yes — usually 10 to 12 hours, water only. Many other tests need no fasting at all. Your request form will say.
Can I take my medicines while fasting?
Usually yes, with water. Ask when the test is ordered if you are unsure, particularly with diabetes medicines.
How long do results take?
Most within a few days. Some specialised tests take a couple of weeks.
Common test
Full blood count
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Common testFull blood count
Red cells, white cells and platelets. Picks up anaemia and infection.
Common test
Iron studies
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Common testIron studies
Fatigue is one of the most common reasons to test, and iron is a common answer.
Common test
Cholesterol panel
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Common testCholesterol panel
Usually fasting. Part of assessing heart disease risk.
Common test
HbA1c
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Common testHbA1c
Average blood sugar over about three months. No fasting needed.
Common test
Thyroid function
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Common testThyroid function
Tiredness, weight change, mood change and hair changes all prompt it.
Common test
Kidney and liver function
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Common testKidney and liver function
Also used to monitor medicines that affect either.
Fasting means water only.Tea and coffee, even black, can change the numbers.
Bring the form,bring ID.
Bring your request form, your Medicare card and photo identification.
A brief sharp scratch. Tell the collector if you have fainted before — lying down avoids most problems.
What if I am hard to bleed?
Drink plenty of water beforehand unless you have been told otherwise, and keep warm. Both help considerably.
How do I get my results?
Book a follow-up appointment, in person or by telehealth. We contact you directly if anything needs urgent attention.
1Test orderedWith a clear reason, and ideally the follow-up booked at the same time.At your visit
2PrepareFast if required — 10 to 12 hours, water only. Otherwise no preparation.Night before
3CollectionBring the form, Medicare card and photo ID. It takes a few minutes.5 minutes
4ResultsReviewed by a doctor, then explained at your follow-up appointment.Days
Pathology collection
Fasting tests
Results in days
Every result reviewed
Bulk billed pathology
On-site or nearby collection
Bring photo ID
Follow-up appointments
Pathology collection
Fasting tests
Results in days
Every result reviewed
Bulk billed pathology
On-site or nearby collection
Bring photo ID
Follow-up appointments
Pathology collection
Fasting tests
Results in days
Every result reviewed
Bulk billed pathology
On-site or nearby collection
Bring photo ID
Follow-up appointments
Pathology & blood testsquestions, answered.
Do I need to fast?
For cholesterol and some glucose tests, usually 10 to 12 hours, water only. Your form will say.
Can I drink coffee while fasting?
No. Water only, even black coffee or tea.
Should I take my medicines?
Usually yes with water. Ask when the test is ordered, especially with diabetes medicines.
How long do results take?
Most within a few days. Some specialised tests take longer.
Is pathology bulk billed?
Most Medicare-listed tests are bulk billed. Some tests are not covered by Medicare and you will be told beforehand.
Will you call me with results?
We contact you if something needs urgent attention. Otherwise book a follow-up — no news is not good news.
What if I faint with blood tests?
Tell the collector. Lying down for the collection prevents nearly all of it.
Can I get a copy of my results?
Yes. Ask at your appointment.
General information onlyThis page is general health information for anyone who finds it useful. It is not advice about your own situation and it does not replace a consultation with a doctor who knows you. If you are worried about a symptom, book an appointment or call (02) 6530 7404. In an emergency, call 000.
