Find answers to some of the most common questions patients ask about our pathology tests to help you better prepare for yours.
Patient FAQs
Use our 'find a collection centre' feature to find your nearest NSW Health Pathology location.
You'll see our:
- locations
- opening hours
- test services
- parking and accessibility
- contact details.
You don't need to book standard pathology tests.
Some tests do need booking and might only be offered at selected locations.
Such specialist tests include:
- paediatrics and neonatal collections
- glucose tolerance test (GTT)
- synacthen
- Pylori breath test
- ECG
- holter monitor fitting
- blood pressure monitor fitting.
Call ahead to your preferred NSW Health Pathology collection centre to find out more or book an appointment.
Yes. If your doctor gives you a request form from another pathology provider, you can still come to us for your test.
You'll be greeted by one of our fully-trained blood collectors who aim to provide a caring, professional and positive experience for every patient.
At times, our receptions may be unattended because we're with patients. If this happens, please take a number to ensure you're seen in order of your arrival.
Our collection staff will:
- introduce themselves
- ask for your request form to determine what type of collection is required
- ask for your Medicare card to ensure bulk-billing where possible, and explain when this is not possible
- ask you to provide photo identification
- ask you to confirm your name, date of birth and address
- explain the procedure
- ask for your consent to carry out the procedure (you have the right to refuse the procedure at any time)
- ask you to check specimen labelling to confirm your details and sign the request form for Medicare
- advise how to care for yourself after your collection.
We want you to have a good experience and get the care and treatment you need as fast as possible.
Our highly qualified and experienced collections staff are here to support you.
Let them know if you’re feeling anxious so they can take extra time ensuring you're comfortable and ready.
If you become unwell during a collection, tell our collectors as soon as possible and they will stop immediately. They may ask if there is a relative or friend who can be contacted to get you if you are too unwell to walk or drive.
Our staff work with you to provide the best ongoing service and care, so many of our patients return regularly.
You need:
- the pathology request form from your doctor and
- a valid Medicare card.
You can also bring:
- a list of any current medication you’re taking
- your ID card (if you don’t have a Medicare card)
- your Veterans Affairs Card
- contact details for other doctors or specialists involved in your care if you want your results shared with them.
If you are nervous, you can bring a support person.
Your doctor will let you know if you need to fast before your test.
Fasting means you can't have food or drink (except water) for a specified amount of time before your test.
Read our fasting guidelines for more information.
Some common fasting tests include:
- Cholesterol if a lipid profile is requested
- Glucose fasting
- Glucose tolerance test.
We bulk bill all pathology tests covered under the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS).
If a test is not covered by Medicare, you'll need to pay:
- at the collection centre at the time of your test or
- by signing a consent form for us to invoice you for payment at a later date.
Our collection centres don't accept cash and some don't have EFTPOS machines. We can arrange payments via our online payment portal.
Check with your doctor that the tests they've requested are covered by Medicare.
You can also refer to our list of non-MBS tests.
If you're from overseas, you'll need to pay for your test whether it's covered by the MBS or not. Payment should be made at the collection centre prior to your test.
This depends on the type of test and wait times at the collection centre you attend.
Standard collections normally take between 10-15 minutes.
Some specialised tests may take longer.
Glucose Tolerance Tests (GTTs) require you to stay with us for 2 hours.
Check the opening hours at your preferred collection centre to plan your visit. Our busiest times are in the mornings, and our quieter times are generally after 2pm.
Your collector will provide advice on after-collection care. We ask that you:
- leave the dressing on for at least 2 hours
- avoid strenuous use of the affected arm, e.g. sports or heavy lifting.
If bleeding occurs, apply firm pressure directly on the site.
If swelling or bruising occurs, elevate your arm and apply ice over the site for 10 minutes.
If you are concerned, seek medical advice.
Your results will be sent to the doctor named on your request form. We encourage you to make an appointment with them to discuss your results.
If you want your results shared with other doctors or specialists involved in your care, please let your collector know to add them.
Standard pathology tests are normally processed within 48 hours of collection.
Timed Overnight Urine Collection
Please consult your doctor for information about your personal healthcare.
We understand there are situations in which some patients can't get to a collection centre and need us to come to them.
In such cases, your doctor can refer you to our home collection service.
Speak to you doctor to see if you meet the criteria.
Call ahead to let us know you're coming.
Explain to your child before your visit why they need the test and what's involved.
As a parent or carer, it is important that you appear confident and calm so your child feels relaxed.
Make sure they have had something to eat and drink, unless they are fasting.
Our highly qualified and experienced collections staff are there to support you but you know your child best. Let us know if there's anything we can do to make your experience better.
To ask a question about getting a pathology test, contact your local NSWHP collection centre.
If you have questions about your test, contact your doctor.