Do I need to see my GP first for a referral?

No, you do not need a referral letter for a private blood test. We see patients without referral letters from a GP or other health professionals, but we can send your results to your GP for ongoing treatment after the test is complete at your request.

Using a private medical service does not exclude you from using NHS services in the future.

How do I know which blood tests I need?

Whilst you can book straight in for specific blood tests without seeing one of our GPs first, we recommend booking a GP consultation if you are unsure which blood tests you need. The cost for a GP consultation is £59.

Please note if you wish to discuss your blood test results once you have received them, you will need to book a GP consultation.

How is a blood test carried out?

A blood test is done by taking a blood sample from a blood vessel in your arm, usually on the inside of your elbow or wrist because the veins are closer to the surface and easier to access.

A tight band is tied around the upper arm to temporarily slow down blood, causing the vein to swell and making it easier to find the vein and take the sample.

The healthcare professional taking your blood will clean the area before using a very thin needle and syringe to draw out the right amount of blood. When the needle is inserted you may feel a scratch or pricking sensation, but it shouldn’t feel painful. If you are scared of needles or blood, or if you are uncertain of the procedure you can speak to us and we will do everything we can to make you feel comfortable. Even if you are having multiple tests, only one needle will need to be inserted.

After the test you should feel fine and be able to go about your day as normal. Some people do feel slightly dizzy or faint but this will pass quickly. You might have slight bruising where the needle entered but it’s nothing to worry about and will fade over a few days.

To learn more about blood tests, please visit the NHS Blood Tests page.

Why use a private healthcare provider for blood tests?

You do not need a referral to get blood tests from us, this means that if you are battling to get a GP appointment or if you are becoming anxious about the possibility of any condition, you can get results quickly and easily. Your blood test results are confidential, but we can share them with your NHS GP if you would like us to.

We also recognise that blood tests can be stressful for a lot of people. Our clinics are comfortable and professional, and our primary concern is your wellbeing. We make sure that you are relaxed and have all the information you need before we start and we won’t rush your appointment.

Book today

Booking your private blood test is easy, enquire online, contact us on [email protected] or call our reception team on 0333 9000 010.

With an expansive list of over 1000 blood tests available simply get in touch to book your preferred test(s).

Summerfield Healthcare’s medical reception team are specially trained to deal with all enquiries in a professional, prompt and private manner.