Test Results and Laboratory Specimens

You may also telephone for your own investigation results. Wherever possible, please telephone in the afternoon between 2pm and 4pm, as this is the period when the telephone lines and the Patient Services team are least busy and so best able to help.

Please note, our staff can only relay the information given by the doctor. If they are unable to give you a result, it doesn’t necessarily indicate a problem. It may simply mean the doctor needs to discuss the situation with you directly.

Results can be provided to someone other than the patient if previously arranged with the doctor.

Please be aware that results from tests conducted during hospital appointments are not usually sent to the practice.

Results of Smear Tests

Normal smears are recalled every 3 years or if you have abnormal smears it may be more frequently. Sometimes a smear is inadequate and you will be called by the

surgery to have it repeated. If there is any problem with your smear that needs referral to a Gynaecologist the surgery will contact you to see a doctor in the surgery. Smear results can take a few weeks to come back from the Cytology Department, you should also receive a copy of the result in the post.

Confidentiality

Results for patients over 16 years old can only be given to the patient.

Specimens should be handed in as early in the day as possible. Please ensure your name and date of birth are on the container.