Pathology Direct Online Purchase FAQs

What is a blood test request?

This is a request made by your healthcare professional for a blood test or series of blood tests.

How do I get a blood test request?

Speak to a healthcare professional and they will provide you with a blood test request if they deem it necessary.

What if I don’t have a blood test request?

If you haven't seen a doctor but would still like to access the service, we can arrange a number of blood tests for you from a list of tests that have been clinically approved by our GPs.

How can I pay for my blood tests?

Pathology Direct is a self-pay service. You can pay by credit/debit card. We can issue receipts but we can't provide itemised invoices. Unfortunately, you can't use insurance/health plans to pay for tests.

What happens once I've paid for my blood tests online?

Simply pick the test you need, choose your preferred Nuffield Health hospital location and select an appointment time. Once you've paid online we'll send you an email confirmation and receipt.

A member of the Pathology Direct team will contact you to discuss your appointment options and confirm your booking. Orders placed on weekends or bank holidays will be confirmed on the next working day.

Who carries out my blood test?

A qualified phlebotomist will collect your blood test samples, which will then be analysed in our national network of pathology laboratories and accredited partners.

How long will my phlebotomy appointment take?

Your phlebotomy appointment should take around 15 minutes.

Can I cancel blood tests purchased online?

Yes, please email our Pathology Direct team at path.direct@nuffieldhealth.com to request a refund. Unfortunately, a £10 cancellation fee will apply if you wish to cancel your blood test. This charge will apply once you've received and been allocated an appointment date and time.

Can I change the time of my blood test?

Yes, please email the Pathology Direct team at path.direct@nuffieldhealth.com and they will be able to amend your booking. Please note that you won't be able to reply to the confirmation email you receive.

Can I change the location of my blood test appointment?

Yes, please email a member of the Pathology Direct team at path.direct@nuffieldhealth.com and they'll be able to amend your booking. Please note that any booking or change will be subject to availability at your selected location, so we request that you do this at least 24 hours prior to your appointment.

How far in advance can I book blood tests?

We can take bookings for appointments up to 4 weeks in advance.

How long will it be before I get my results?

Turnaround times may vary depending on the tests selected. A member of the team will be able to discuss this with you. Please note all turnaround times are estimated and can't be guaranteed.

How will I get my results?

Results are sent to you by email. The email will be encrypted and the password will be sent separately. Results can be sent by 1st class post (recorded delivery) on request. A copy of your results will be forwarded to your requesting healthcare professional if booked using a blood test request from them.

What if my results are abnormal?

We don't provide any interpretation of your results, so if you require clinical advice, it's important that you speak to your healthcare professional. However, if one or more of your results are significantly abnormal and require urgent medical attention, this will be highlighted to you in the email accompanying your results.

What tests can I get done through your Pathology Direct service?

Pathology Direct is a self-pay service to give patients access to blood tests and results directly. If you can't see the test that you need, a more comprehensive range is available. If you have a blood test request from your healthcare professional, please contact a member of the Pathology Direct team on path.direct@nuffieldhealth.com or complete the enquiry form below.

Is this service available to those under the age of 18?

No, unfortunately this service isn't available to those under 18.

Do I need to do anything in particular to prepare for my blood test?

Most tests don't require any preparation. If there are any special requirements (i.e. fasting), a member of the Pathology Direct team will advise you when confirming your booking.