Laboratory services are crucial for many visits to our practice, and we are dedicated to providing the best care possible. That's why we strive to make the process as straightforward and convenient as possible. Here are the five steps to our lab work process:
Step 1: Choosing a Preferred Lab Facility
We offer laboratory services at our flagship clinic locations. Alternatively, we are proud to offer laboratory services through two of the top providers in the country: LabCorp and Quest Diagnostics. Both of these facilities have a wide range of locations, insurance coverage, and appointment scheduling options. When choosing a preferred lab facility, it's important to consider factors such as insurance coverage, payment options, and proximity to your home or workplace.
π‘ If you prefer to use a different lab facility, we recommend contacting them in advance to confirm if they accept LabCorp or Quest requisitions and if a provider's signature is required.
Step 2: The Appointment
Before any lab work can be ordered, a consultation with your provider is recommended and often required. During this appointment, your provider will determine which specific lab tests are necessary for your treatment and care plan. You can also discuss any additional tests that you may want to request. At this time, you can select your preferred lab facility (LabCorp or Quest) and your provider will send the lab order within 24 hours of your appointment. They will also provide instructions on how to prepare for the blood draw, if necessary.
Step 3: Scheduling Your Lab Appointment
Once your lab order has been sent, you can schedule an appointment directly with LabCorp or Quest Diagnostics. If you prefer, you can also schedule a lab appointment at a flagship clinic with a Circle Medical lab technician. This can be done through your Circle Medical app or on our website once your labs have been ordered.
Step 4: Sample Collection
When it's time for your lab appointment, bring a copy of your lab order with you. This can be found in your Secure Care Inbox or the All Files tab of your Circle Medical app. The lab order will be transmitted electronically to your preferred lab facility automatically, but it's a good idea to have a physical copy with you. The lab staff will be able to scan the barcode on the document to access the order.
If your provider has requested multiple lab requisitions, make sure to verify this with the lab technician to ensure all tests are completed.
π If you have been asked to fast before your appointment, refrain from eating or drinking anything except water for 10 hours. Black coffee and plain tea (without sugar or creamer) are also allowed.
Step 5: Lab Results
The time it takes for lab results to be completed can vary depending on the specific tests ordered. Typically, it takes 7-10 days for test results to appear. Once they are ready, they will be shared with you in your Secure Care Inbox. They will also be sent to your provider for analysis and review. If you do not receive a notification about your lab results after this timeframe, please contact us through the Chat and Support option in the Circle Medical app or website.
If you have completed your lab work at an outside facility, it is your responsibility to ensure that the results are forwarded to us. You (or the outside facility) can send the results via fax ((888) 803-3331) or email ([email protected]).
After you have received your lab results, you can schedule a Video Appointment with your provider to discuss the findings and any necessary next steps in your treatment plan. Our goal is to make this process as seamless as possible, and our staff is always available to support and inform you throughout the entire journey.