You recently had your blood drawn and sent to a lab for testing, so you may be wondering what happens behind the scenes to turn your blood into meaningful results. While the journey from tiny tube to test result involves some technical steps, it starts and ends with you.
Off to the lab
As soon as the phlebotomist takes a sample in the collection tubes, the vials are labeled with your information and packaged for pickup. Specialized medical couriers pick up shipments from doctors’ offices and Labcorp locations throughout the day to ensure prompt delivery to the testing lab.
Upon arrival at the lab, the shipment is carefully inspected to confirm all tubes are intact with labels securely in place. Each tube barcode is scanned into the laboratory information system to log it in. Now, the real processing work begins.
Analyzing your sample
Skilled laboratory technicians and technologists and precise automated equipment prepare your sample to be tested, first by dividing it into different vials based on the test(s) that need to be performed. Then, our laboratory staff sets up and performs each test that needs to be completed for you. Modern automated chemistry analyzers can perform hundreds of different tests per hour, on your sample and those from many other patients. More specialized tests require careful and precise manual preparation methods.
To maintain accuracy of results, your specimen is tested alongside quality control samples. These control samples act as a reference point to help ensure testing is as precise and accurate as possible. If unusual results are detected in these control samples, the equipment is recalibrated.
Recording and reviewing results
Once testing is complete, your results are uploaded into the laboratory information system where they undergo rigorous validation. Some tests are automatically released, and others are reviewed by staff for consistency with prior tests , expected values and any potential issues or flags. Only approved results are sent to you and the healthcare provider who ordered your testing.
Routine test results are typically available within 1-3 days, while more complex tests can take 4-7 days or more. The lab retains your sample for a set period in case any results need verification.
Labcorp OnDemand provides options for accessing lab testing and receiving results so you can have informed discussions with your doctor. You can use your secure Labcorp Patient™ account to view results online and track changes over time. From our Comprehensive Health Test to our ColoFIT Colon Cancer Home Collection Test, we make it easier than ever to help you take a more proactive role in your health.
