How to Order Your Own Lab Tests Online

If you've ever seen a television or movie character walk into a lab and order his own lab tests without having seen a doctor, you probably wondered whether it was even possible in real life. It is, but not necessarily the way it's depicted onscreen.

Most of the time, your doctor decides which lab tests you should have. However, if the two of you disagree, or if you want a particular test but have privacy concerns, you may have another option.

Several companies allow U.S. consumers to order their own lab tests online. Ordering tests is easy; just go online, create an account, and browse the listings or search for the tests you desire. Once you decide which tests you want, you can place the order and make your payment. A doctor in your state will look at the order and approve it; this is necessary, as the lab cannot accept a requisition that hasn't been authorized by a physician.

DirectLabs (Direct Laboratory Services, Inc.) allows you to place your order online or over the phone. They can even work with you to make special arrangements if there is no facility in your area. In addition, if you don't see a test mentioned on the site, you can call them to find out whether it's available. You'll be able to print the requisition from your online account. Most test results are available online within 48 hours.

HealthCheckUSA claims to be the largest and most experienced direct-to-consumer (DTC) lab testing service in the United States. If you order tests from this company, you'll receive the lab requisition by mail. You can receive your results by e-mail, mail, or fax.

MyMedLab allows you to place orders by phone as well as online, although phone orders will cost more. This company also offers gift certificates.

PERSONALABS makes more than 6000 tests available directly to consumers; if you don't see the one you want, give them a call. In addition to credit cards, this site also accepts PayPal.

The range of available tests includes allergies, cancer screening, cardiovascular health, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), hormones, vitamins, minerals, and many others. Discounts may be available through external sites; for example, if the tests are for thyroid function, discounts are available through Stop the Thyroid Madness.

In most cases, you'll have your samples drawn at Laboratory Corporation of America (LabCorp). Before placing an order, it's important to make sure there is a location convenient to you; each website has a directory. When you go to the lab, don't forget to take the requisition and a photo ID. Currently, New Jersey, New York, and Rhode Island prohibit consumers from ordering their own lab tests.

There are drawbacks to ordering your own lab tests. If you decide to tell your doctor, be prepared; some don't appreciate being second-guessed. However, as a consumer, it's your right to take charge of your own health care and make some choices of your own.

Sources:

DirectLabs http://www.directlabs.com/
HealthCheckUSA http://www.healthcheckusa.com/
MyMedLab http://mymedlab.com/
PERSONALABS http://www.personalabs.com/