Blood tests are used to analyze blood for certain characteristics or diseases. Blood is drawn and stored until it is subjected to required tests. Results inform patients about their health and can rule out causes of symptoms. Tests can be completed in a few days or the same day. Health insurance may cover the cost of blood tests.
The term blood test is used in the medical community to describe the act of analyzing blood for certain characteristics or to determine whether the person from whom the blood was drawn has a certain disease. The first step in the blood test process is for a doctor or medical professional to deem the test or analysis necessary. At this point, blood is drawn from the patient and stored in sealed capsules until it is subjected to the required tests or analyses. There are various types of laboratory equipment that are used to perform blood tests. Blood test results are used to inform a patient about their health, rule out the causes of certain symptoms, and possibly gather more information about an existing condition.
To collect blood samples, blood is drawn from a patient by a doctor, nurse, or phlebotomist. It is more common for blood to be collected from a vein in the arm. In cases where only a small amount of blood is needed, it can be collected by pricking the swab on one of the patient’s fingers. In some cases, the patient’s blood is drawn directly in the doctor’s office. In other cases, he will go to have his blood drawn in a special diagnostic center.
Depending on the type of blood test being administered and whether the results are needed urgently, the amount of time it takes to complete the blood test can vary. Routine blood tests can often be completed in a few days. If a doctor requests results quicker, it may be possible to get blood test results the same day the blood is drawn.
In some cases, the cost of blood tests is covered by health insurance. Depending on the health insurance company’s policies, however, in some cases patients may be required to pay all or part of the cost of blood tests. It is also common for health insurance providers to complete blood tests themselves when they are in the process of extending a policy to a new client. In doing so, the insurance company can test for a variety of diseases and conditions and base the terms of the health insurance policy on this collected information.
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