Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
If I do not have any current medical problems, do I still need laboratory testing?
Many disease states such as heart disease, hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol), diabetes, cancer, and many others can be prevented, or at least regulated by having a working knowledge of blood chemistries, blood counts, and cholesterol levels. Abnormal results must be addressed and treated by your physician. Normal results are useful as well, as this allows for comparison to labs drawn in the future.
Why are these labs helpful?
Laboratory data provides information for your physician that he cannot obtain on a normal physical exam, no matter how good the exam. Basic laboratory data is a must for anyone wanting a complete health check.
Are the lab tests accurate?
Yes, they are extremely accurate. We have formed contracts with only nationally accredited, CLIA certified labs. These labs are regulated on the state and federal levels.
Am I allowed to eat prior to the lab testing?
In order for the results to be accurate, it is recommended that you do not eat or drink for 8-10 hours prior to the test. Water is allowed.
What is the actual process of getting the test?
After you have decided which test(s) it is that you want, simply order the test online via credit card. The requisition will then be faxed to the patient service center nearest you, based on your zip code. An email will let you know that your order is waiting at the lab. A link on the website will also give you directions to the lab. After you present to the lab, and have your blood drawn, you are finished. Your results will be available for your review via a secure area on our web site, using your user name and password.
Will I be able to understand the test results?
Yes. Reference ranges will be provided on all results. You will also receive a personal letter from the owner of the company who is a licensed, practicing physician, which will instruct you what to do with your results.
What do I do if I have questions about my results?
We are glad to answer any questions you might have. The best way to do this is via email. As stated before, our position is not that of your primary care physician, and you should therefore discuss your labs with him or her as well.
How are abnormal results interpreted?
Abnormal results can be thought of as an early warning system. Some treatment protocol needs to be instituted by your doctor to correct the abnormalities. We issue a letter with all abnormal results that instructs you to follow up the abnormalities promptly with your physician.
Does insurance cover these tests?
We do not process insurance claims, although some insurance companies will reimburse you if preventative care is specified in your policy without a prescription. This is why our prices are so much lower than normal labs. We will provide CPT codes for each test upon request, if you decide to submit a claim to your insurance company.
Does Medicare or Medicaid cover these tests?
No. Medicare patients must have a physician order for any test.
Which tests get ordered most frequently?
Our complete wellness profile is our most frequently ordered test. It includes a complete blood count, fluid balance and electrolyte profile, thyroid panel with tsh, liver panel, kidney panel, glucose, mineral balance and bone composition, and lipid profile. It is recommended that everyone have this checked once a year.
The comprehensive STD profile if very popular, as it screens for nearly every STD, including HIV. It also allows the client to receive all of these results anonymously.
If I am not happy with any of the services of MedLabUSA, am I entitled to a refund?
Yes, you are entitled to a full refund as long as you do not present to the lab to have your blood drawn. Our negotiated agreements with the nationally accredited CLIA labs preclude us from getting refunds once the tests are drawn and resulted. If you would like to cancel, please let us know as soon as possible after you place your order, so that we do not mail out the requisition.
Disclaimer
MedLabUSA, LLC testing is not intended to replace your primary care physician. Laboratory results, especially those which are abnormal, need to be followed up with your doctor. A typed statement will accompany any abnormal results, recommending that you follow up with your physician.
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