Services & Specialties

Laboratory News/Information

Your Lab Tests, Your Choice

When your doctor orders a lab test, you can usually take your requisition to the lab of your choice. But few people know what to look for in a laboratory and what to ask while they are there. You can ask your health care provider about the labs they use or you can ask questions of the lab you choose. Here are some good questions:

• Is the lab licensed and inspected by the State of California? Does it participate in any voluntary accreditation programs? Is a licensed Clinical Laboratory Scientist always there to perform testing?
• Were you informed about how to prepare for the lab test, if necessary? If collecting the specimen yourself, were adequate instructions provided?
• Were you told how soon to expect your result and how you would be informed? Will there be a personal call if the result is abnormal?
• Is there a number you can call if you have questions?
• Did you experience a friendly and accommodating staff?
• Did lab personnel seem committed to service and interested in you as a patient?
• What tests does the lab perform onsite? Which ones does it have to send on to another laboratory? Could transport offsite affect the integrity of the specimen? How will offsite testing impact the waiting period for the result?
• Does the lab have state-of-the-art equipment? Does it have a lab-wide computer system to streamline operations and allow instant access to released results? Can the computer automatically fax results to off-site doctors as soon as they are released? Can a cumulative report be generated showing how a patient’s results have changed over time?
• Ridgecrest is fortunate to have a choice of locally performed lab testing. Knowing what to look for and what to ask will help you choose a laboratory that meets your needs and provides quality care.