Many times we go to the lab to have our blood or other specimens taken and may not think of what we have done earlier in the day to prepare for these tests. An estimated 70% of all health care decisions depend on medical laboratory testing. During National Medical Laboratory Professionals Week, the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at Tufts Medical Center has provided tips on how to get the most from your medical tests.
Follow instructions
Strictly follow all pre-testing instructions. Your doctor may give you instructions on how to prepare for your medical test. If you don't follow those instructions, your results can be dramatically different and often inaccurate.
Accredited lab
Ask if your laboratory tests will be run in an accredited laboratory. Federal regulators monitor the accuracy and reliability of medical laboratory testing. Accredited laboratories have demonstrated that the quality of their testing meets or exceeds federal requirements. The Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at Tufts MC is accredited by the College of American Pathologists.
Ask questions
Ask your doctor what your test results mean. Combine the complexity of a lab report with the wealth of health information online and even informed patients can get confused. Take the time to ask questions you may have about your test results and be sure you understand what the results mean for you and your health.
Accurate medical testing is the cornerstone of good health and the medical laboratory professionals here at Tufts Medical Center are committed to being your partners in quality health care.
Learn more about our Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine >
