How to go about getting required blood work in US?

**Max8629** · 03-09-2016, 06:02 PM

Looking to get my blood work out of the way sometime soon, but I am confused on how to go about it. I read a thread that said to order the required tests online and then visit a local lab, which I am able to do.

However, can I just go to a local hospital and ask for the tests that I need, or is a prescription needed for that? In this case, I have a prescription for bloodwork to check my creatinine levels, could I use this to get the other required tests done? Or should I just go through the online option?

Any advice is appreciated, thanks.

**charger69** · 03-09-2016, 06:35 PM

It depends on what state you are in. I know in CA, the labs can only do what the doctor ordered and they will only send the results to the doctor. You cannot have them sent to you.

**Max8629** · 03-10-2016, 08:59 AM

Originally Posted by charger69

It depends on what state you are in. I know in CA, the labs can only do what the doctor ordered and they will only send the results to the doctor. You cannot have them sent to you.

I am in PA, and I believe I can order lab results for myself. Is this the only way though?

**almostgone** · 03-10-2016, 09:03 AM

blood work w/o Dr's orders?

**Max8629** · 03-10-2016, 09:50 AM

Thanks, guess I will just go the online route.

**Tigershark** · 03-10-2016, 12:56 PM

There is a private lab in my area that does blood work without a doctor's orde as long as you are paying out of pocket. It wasn't terribly expensive either. Less then $75 if I remember. And I am in a small area so if you are in a bigger area I am sure you can find a private lab as well.