Can I just walk into the hospital lab and ask for my blood work to be done?

Question

We have no medical insurance. I've recently paid for a pap (almost $200 with lab fees). Haven't had one since the birth of my last son, 9 years ago. Figured it was time. I'd like get my blood work done, you know, for cholesterol and whatever else they do. I don't want to pay to see this Dr. again, just so she can allow me to get lab work. (They didn't tell my I should have been fasting the last time) Can I just walk into the hospital and request this to be done as a private citizen? Or do I need to get permission from someone?

Answer 1

In the US, labs have to be ordered by a physician or other provider. The rationale is that someone has to be responsible for interpreting the results and acting on abnormal results.

Some folks argue that common screening labs should be available on demand - for example that someone should just be able to walk in and get a Pap smear or a cholesterol test or a PSA without having to see a doctor first. The patient could then be advised to see a doctor if the test returned abnormal.

Seems to me that there's a lot to be said for this argument but unfortunately, it hasn't taken hold in the US.

Answer 2

Not as far as I know, the doctor always gives me a signed request from her before I go and I can't get any blood work done with out it.
The reason I believe is that the doctor needs to interpet the results and that a lay person is not qualified.

Answer 3

No, it has to be at a doctor's request. Perhaps you could visit a local clinic and be seen by someone there, who could then order the blood work.

Answer 4

No. You need a Doctor to order and be responsible for any abnormalities.

Answer 5

If you donate plasma, they check for protein, etc.. (I don't know about cholesterol?)
But, you have to be REALLY healthy to do that. And, most places, pay you for plasma.