Scheduling lab appointments can be difficult and time-consuming. Between taking off time from work and remembering a million numbers and lab times, it’s hard to keep the schedule in line. But companies are looking to change all of that.
Getlabs provides at-home lab visits that eliminate the need to visit your local facility, making things easier on everyone. Other advancements have made the lab process more modern and accessible also, and in this article, we will discuss a few.
The Old Way of Doing Lab Appointments
The old way of doing lab appointments included multiple steps that took up a lot of time. To schedule an appointment, one had to contact the facility in person or over the phone to get the needed information. This would include finding out which test they would need, when it was available, and when they could come in for their appointment. After this was all figured out, the customer had to take time off work for the appointment and go down to the facility. The process took up a decent amount of time and damaged relationships between client and their employers.
The cons of doing labs the old way were many, including:
-Time-consuming
-People had to take time off work
-Possible damage to the relationship with an employer
New Advancements in Lab Appointments
Thankfully, the process of lab appointments has changed for the better. With new advancements the lab process has become more modern and efficient. Some of these new methods include:
Online labs
Online labs allow people to go through their tests and results from the convenience of their own homes. In addition, these lab appointments are typically more affordable than traditional lab visits, making it easier for those who need frequent lab work.
At-home labs
As the name states, these appointments allow you to go to a local facility and be seen by a doctor right in your living room. No more having to worry about going down to the lab and wasting time taking off from work.
Newer, easier tests
The technology used in medical tests continues to advance every year, allowing for faster and smarter results. Tests that once took a few days or weeks can now be done in a matter of hours, making scheduling appointments easier.
More efficient facilities
The labs themselves are getting smarter and much more advanced in recent years. Many labs have a variety of ways to help people get their tests done quickly and affordably, making things much simpler.
Higher quality results
With the newer tests and facilities, the accuracy of results has exponentially improved. With better equipment and smarter tests, accuracy rates can be as high as 99%, saving a lot of stress and worry.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lab Appointments
Still a little confused about how lab appointments work? We’ve got the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions:
Question: How does at-home testing work?
With newer technology, at-home testing allows doctors to use an at-home kit to perform many different tests.
Question: What are online labs?
An online lab lets you go through your results and order new tests from the convenience of your own home. These tests are typically less expensive and can be done more frequently, giving you a better picture of your health.
Question: What is the difference between digital and paper lab reports?
Today’s labs use computer systems to conduct their tests and record results, making it much easier to keep track of everything. Digital reports make it easier to spot problems or irregularities earlier in the process, allowing for quicker and more efficient treatment.
Question: How do I schedule an appointment?
With various options available, scheduling appointments has been made much easier. Some facilities have online systems that you can schedule directly from their website. Others may have an email option or even a phone number you can call to schedule.
Question: What if I don’t have any major problems but still need lab work?
Some companies may offer discounted lab appointments for those who just need routine tests done. These are usually the simplest tests that only require a few hours onsite, making them a great option for those who don’t need more extensive treatment.
Question: How often should I go to the doctor for lab work?
For those who need regular tests, online or at-home labs can be a blessing. Taking time off of work every few days is difficult and stressful, so using services like this can be life-changing. In addition, scheduling appointments becomes much easier when the technicians do most of the leg work.
Question: Does at-home testing have restrictions?
Some tests have age or weight restrictions, so it’s important to check with your doctor before opting for this type of appointment. Other tests may require a physical exam prior to testing, which means you’ll need a normal lab appointment if that isn’t possible.
Question: Does insurance cover lab testing?
Many tests are covered under most insurance plans, but others may require additional coverage or a co-payment from the patient. Be sure to check with your doctor and service provider in advance, so you aren’t caught off guard when it comes time for payment.
Question: What is the best way to get my lab work done?
This really depends on your personal situation. Some people prefer online labs because they’re more convenient, while others may like the affordability and personal touch of at-home tests. It’s important to find what works best for you and stick with it, so you can maintain your health without any stress.
Question: What should I do if I have other questions?
Don’t hesitate to contact your doctor or the service provider you’re using for more information. They’ll be more than happy to answer any questions you may have and help make the process easier for you.
Final Thoughts
Lab appointments, whether in-person or online, have become much easier to schedule and manage over the years. With various technologies and options available, it’s now simpler than ever to get the tests you need without having to take time off work or worry about the cost. Be sure to check with your doctor or service provider if you have any questions about scheduling or what services are available.
