The laboratories analyse samples such as blood, urine and tissue taken by the healthcare team and provide advice about interpretation of the results and possible treatments. The four laboratory specialities, haematology, pathology, biochemistry and microbiology are provided by specialist teams of scientists and doctors, who work closely with the teams in hospitals and GP surgeries to ensure patients receive the best possible care and treatment.
Questions about your sample or results
The laboratory cannot give results directly to patients, or answer specific questions about your sample.
If you have a concern or question about your sample or results this should be directed in the first instance to the clinician (GP or hospital clinical team) who requested the tests. The correct interpretation of results can often only be made taking into account the whole clinical picture that is available to the clinician managing your care.
It is responsibility of the requesting clinician to provide relevant clinical details and medication history, to inform both test selection and interpretation of results.
Patient confidentiality
See the area laboratories patient confidentiality and consent information for guidance on how we ensure the confidentiality and data protection of information.
Laboratory test information for patients
Lab Tests Online-UK is a resource written by practising laboratory doctors and scientists.
It aims to help you understand the many clinical laboratory tests that are used in diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of disease.
Information is produced by the Association for Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine in collaboration with the Royal College of Pathologists and the Institute of Biomedical Science.
Please note that information on equality and diversity, along with our feedback and complaints process, can be found by clicking on the links below.
Complaints procedure
You can make a complaint:
- in person
- by phone
- by e-mail
- in writing
We have a two stage complaints procedure. We will always try to deal with your complaint quickly. If it is clear that the matter will need a detailed investigation, we will tell you and keep you updated on our progress.
See our full complaints handling procedure section for more details.