Bloodwork

[Emmy]

So I have my first prescription for testosterone blockers and estrogen.

The doctor suggests I get bloodwork done before starting and he gave me some lab slip of paper.

I kind of left before paying too much attention to it so didn't ask anymore on it.
Of course, I could just call. But I sort of dislike talking to the receptionist.

I've never went to get blood done just out of the blue so I figured maybe I would ask all of you what to do exactly?


The paper says:

Lab:
CMP
CBC

Indication:
v.58.69 Rx Monitoring
257.2 Hypogonad


There's a list of other things on each list but only the ones I typed have the bubble check-marked.
Then at the bottom is the doctor's name and it says where to fax the results.

Do I basically go somewhere to get blood done and hand them this slip of paper or am I supposed to tell them what I want.. or what?

I'm kind of confused. I guess I'll call later if no one posts here.

[stldrmgrl]

Just take it to the lab where you're getting the work done, they will know what to fill out/do.  Don't write anything on the paper unless you were/are instructed to.

[Emmy]

Okay thanks. Though, I don't have any lab in specific.
Should I just find one in my area and go there?

And does anyone know a rough price of how much it'll cost?

[stldrmgrl]

Most doctors specify the lab they wish for you to go to.  Check your lab papers, it should specify the lab.  If not, you may need to call your doctor to verify.  As far as cost, I'm not sure.  I paid for my first doctor visit, new patient fees and my lab work all together.

[Emmy]

He mentioned there was one around there to go to but it isn't listed on anything he gave me nor did he ever mention where it was/ the name.

Probably because I was hoping to be able to do it somewhere around my town because it's a long drive there.

So he told me I could do that. But I guess I just wasn't sure how to go about with it

[stldrmgrl]

Okay, then yeah - just find a lab nearby if the doctor gave the O.K.  Most common are usually LabCorp or Quest Diagnostics (around here anyway).

[stldrmgrl]

It appears Health Testing Centers is just a middle man organization.  It doesn't appear they actually do the testing, only the test ordering, paperwork preparations and contact you with the results (which is all unnecessary considering your doctor has done/will do this).  According to their website, they will refer you to LabCorp for the actual testing.  Since you've already seen your doctor and have your lab paperwork, you just need the lab work (the site you listed gives an address for a LabCorp in Hickory, NC).

[Emmy]

Oh I see. That site required a purchase beforehand though, so where does that come into play? Considering the one from the doctor didn't and I know the tests themselves will cost money.

Is it as simple as taking what the doctor gave me to the lab and handing them it + paying whatever price they give me?

that'd be so convenient.

Sorry for the obnoxiousness. This is all very new to me.

[stldrmgrl]

No worries, I'd hate for you to pay for something you don't need to.  The site's purchase you're referring to is if you had not seen a doctor and wanted blood tests at your own discretion to be done, they would order the tests through LabCorp and provide you the paperwork/results.  Think of your doctor as that site; your doctor already ordered the lab tests and gave you the paperwork, therefore a site/organization like Health Testing Centers is unnecessary.  To answer your second question, yes it is as simple as taking the paperwork you already have to LabCorp, handing it to them and paying whatever they ask.  Do not pay anyone but LabCorp for these tests, unless of course you've already paid for the labs through your doctor (which you would have paid when you obtained the lab paperwork during your visit).  Avoid that website you posted, it's worthless to you.

[Emmy]

Okay, thanks so much. I guess I'll head over there soon (probably going to need some more money first.) and see if all goes smooth. :]

[stldrmgrl]

You're welcome