Laboratory Services

What are laboratory services?

Laboratory services are diagnostic, investigative, and research procedures performed in clinical and scientific laboratories. These facilities are staffed by skilled professionals, including clinical pathologists, medical laboratory scientists, and technicians, who conduct tests and experiments using advanced equipment and techniques. 

They aim to produce accurate and precise results that help in making informed medical decisions and advancing scientific knowledge.

Why would I need laboratory services?

You may require laboratory services for various reasons, such as:

Diagnostic purposes

If you're experiencing health issues, your provider may request laboratory tests to diagnose diseases, infections, or underlying health conditions.

Treatment monitoring

Laboratory services are necessary for monitoring the effectiveness of medical treatments and ensuring patients are responding appropriately.

Screening and prevention

Regular checkups and screenings, such as cholesterol or glucose levels, can detect health issues early, enabling timely intervention.

How do I prepare for laboratory services?

The type of preparation you need to do before laboratory services depends on the specific test or procedure you’re scheduled for. Typically, you’ll be required to adhere to certain guidelines.

For example, fasting might be necessary for specific tests like cholesterol or blood glucose assessments, involving a designated period of abstaining from food or drink. This minimizes the influence of recent dietary intake on these tests.

You should also plan to provide information about your prescription medications, over-the-counter supplements, or any allergies you may have. Knowing these details lets your provider interpret your test results accurately and prevent any adverse reactions during your procedure.

You should also wear comfortable clothing, particularly if your laboratory service involves accessing a specific body area for sample collection. 

Following these guidelines can help ensure that you receive the most accurate results.

What issues can laboratory services identify?

Laboratory services can identify a wide range of health and scientific issues, including:

• Infectious diseases (e.g., HIV, COVID-19, or hepatitis)
• Metabolic disorders (e.g., diabetes, thyroid function, and cholesterol levels)
• Cancer
• Drug monitoring

To learn more about how laboratory services can play a pivotal role in your health care, call Miguel Albert, MD, today or click on the contact page to book an appointment online.