Test Results & Laboratory Specimens

The NHS App is a simple and secure way to access a range of NHS services on your smartphone or tablet.

Test Results

You must ensure that you obtain the results of tests that we arrange for you at Shirland Medical.

Results can be obtained using the NHS and Apps or SystmOnline Website. Alternatively you can telephone.

General Information about Test Results

The NHS and Airmid Apps, SystmOnline website or a receptionist can tell you the advice the doctor has given after he or she has reviewed your result. This will have up to 3 components.

  1. What is the result e.g. a normal, abnormal, borderline, unknown.
  2. What action to take e.g. no action needed, repeat test, collect prescription, speak to the Doctor, Nurse or Pharmacist.
  3. Any additional message or note the Doctor has added to the result.

Please remember that the staff can only act in accordance with the Doctor’s instructions so may not be able to give you the exact result. This does not necessarily mean that there is a problem but simply that the Doctor or Pharmacist or Nurse needs to see you or talk to you to explain the whole situation.

Results can be given to someone other than the patient if previously arranged with the team.

The results of tests are the responsibility of the requestor, so tests arranged the hospital or other healthcare services are not normally sent to the practice. You will need to contact the requestor directly to discuss these results.

Results of Smear Tests

Normal smears are recalled every 3 years (ages 25-49) or 5 years (ages 50-65) or if you have abnormal smears it may be more frequently. Sometimes a smear is inadequate you will be called by the team to repeat it.

If there is any problems with your smear that needs referral to a Gynaecologist you will be contacted directly by the specialist clinic. Smear results can take a few weeks to come back from the Cytology Department, you should also receive a copy of the result in the post.

Confidentiality

Results for patients over 16 years old can only be given to the patient.


Test Times

Below is an approximate guide to how long results can take to come through.

Type of TestUsual Time for Results
X-RayUp to 2 weeks
Smear2 weeks
Blood tests2 to 14 days, depending on the test
UrineWithin 7 days

Laboratory Specimens

Specimens should be handed in as early in the day as possible. Our last transport for samples to go to the laboratories is 3pm.

Please ensure your name and date of birth are on the container.