Blood test service (phlebotomy)

Book your blood test online

Blood tests are by appointment only.

Please note: The service can only accept patients with a Medway and Swale GP. Any patients with a GP outside of this area, will be asked to book a test within their region

Blood tests are carried out to help in the diagnosis, care and treatment of various health conditions and diseases and they may be requested by any healthcare professional. They will give you a blood test form or F number and provide you with information about preparation for your test. This will include:

• for glucose tests – have nothing to eat for 10 hours; drink only tap water
• for fasting lipids – have nothing to eat for 12 hours; drink only tap water
• drinking water makes it easier to take your blood
• please take all medication with water, as usual, before your test; with the exception of Digoxin which cannot be taken less than six hours before a blood test
• if you are having a fasting blood test, medication taken with food will need to wait until after the test.
• for genetic tests please book a morning test Monday to Thursday to allow the lab to process your test.

Booking your blood test

Our call takers see the same appointments as you do online and are not able to give you an earlier appointment. We do not keep any urgent appointments available.

• Clinics are held at a choice of venues and are appointment only clinics – booking an appointment is necessary.
• Using our online system you are able to book up to six weeks in advance and you are able to book as many appointments as you require.
• If you are unable to book online, please call 0300 123 3444 option 1, then option 1 again.
• If you feel you need a sooner appointment than we can offer, please contact the service/GP that made the referral for your blood test to see if there are any alternative options.

Booking a blood test for a friend/relative

Using our online system you are able to book a relative or friend into an appointment. You do this by adding them to your account.

Blood tests for children

If your child needs a blood test you need to book an appointment online. Blood tests for children often require more time allocated in order for our staff to reassure them and for you to help calm them before the blood test is taken. A booked appointment means you have a set time for the test, which avoids any potential waiting time and so reduces your child’s anxiety levels prior to going in to the clinic.

If your child needs numbing cream, please ensure it is applied 30-45 minutes prior to the appointment.

Arrive ready for your blood test appointment.

On the day, please bring with you your blood form or F number code (this is given to you by your GP). Please ensure you have any coats off and sleeves rolled up ready for your bloods to be taken.

How to avoid a faint

Fainting can occur when having your blood test. What steps can you take to prevent fainting during your blood test?

Tensing your muscles or crossing your legs at the onset of symptoms may help postpone or prevent fainting. You also may lie down and elevate your legs. If you have fainted at a blood test before, you should ask to do your next blood draw lying down. Tell your phlebotomist immediately if you start to feel light headed.

You can also reduce your likelihood of fainting by doing the following:

• Try not to skip meals.
• Don’t fast for too long.
• Stay hydrated. Ideally, start drinking more fluids the day before your blood test, and continue to drink water up until you have your blood drawn. Staying hydrated helps increase your blood volume. And it plumps up your veins for an easier draw.
• Avoid standing for prolonged periods of time.
• Reduce caffeine and alcohol intake prior to your test.
• Consider wearing elastic stockings to keep blood from pooling in your legs (which would reduce blood flow to your brain).
• Don’t look. If getting blood taken makes you queasy, don’t look at the needle during your test. Read, look at your phone — or chat with your phlebotomists. Our team understand that it can be difficult for some people. They’re usually experts at distraction and can put you at ease.
• Take a deep breath and relax. If you’re anxious about your test, take deep breaths. You can also ask the person drawing your blood to explain what they’re doing. Uncertainty can be stressful. The calmer you are, the easier the draw will be, and the quicker you’ll be out of there.
• Be proactive and talk to the phlebotomist before your blood test and let him/her know if you have fainted before and we will ensure you are tested lying down. It may be useful to be accompanied by a friend or relative who can help take you home if you do faint again.