A blood test is when a sample of blood is taken for testing in a laboratory. Blood tests have a wide range of uses and are one of the most common types of medical test. For example, a blood test can be used to:
- assess your general state of health
- confirm the presence of a bacterial or viral infection
- see how well certain organs, such as the liver and kidneys, are functioning
Bloods tests are usually performed after consultation with a Clinician.
Patients with certain chronic illnesses (such as Diabetes or Heart disease), and patients on certain medication (such as thyroxine or immunosuppressants) will be invited for routine monitoring tests.
A blood test usually involves the phlebotomist taking a blood sample from a blood vessel in your arm. Usually the sample is taken from inside the elbow or wrist, where the veins are relatively close to the surface. If a blood test is needed in child, the skin will be anaesthetised (numbed) with a special cream before the sample is taken.
Where can I get a blood test?
Newmarket Road Park & Ride
No appointment is necessary, but you will need to take the request form from the GP surgery (issued by clinician or reception) or hospital specialist. The samples are tested at Addenbrookes and results are returned to the surgery via computerised lab links without delay.
Addenbrooke’s Hospital Out Patients Department
From the outpatients entrance of Addenbrookes turn left and go past the WRVS café. On arrival at the phlebotomy clinic please take a ticket.
Open Weekdays 9am to 5pm, they perform blood tests on any aged patient. No appointment is needed for adults and children aged 8 years and above. Children under 8 need to be book with the Paediatric Specialist assistant by calling Addenbrooke’s switchboard on 01223 245151 and ask to bleep 154450.
You will need to take the request form from the GP surgery (issued by clinician or reception) or hospital specialist.
Cornford House and Fulbourn Health Centre
Bloods tests are usually performed by a phlebotomist or Healthcare assistant. You will be able to book an appoitments at either surgery.
Domicillary service
This is strictly limited to housebound patients, and is arranged by contacting the surgery for us to arrange.
You can find out more about blood tests, their purpose and the way they are performed on the NHS Choices website.