Test Results and Phone Calls

Some tests take longer than others, but generally give us 7-10 business days to get your results back.  We will call you once the provider has reviewed your results.

 

Tests with Outside Labs

Our providers occasionally need to send blood or tissue samples to an outside lab to be analyzed.  In these cases, we will pass on your current insurance and demographic information and you will be billed separately by these medical service companies.

Getting the Results

If your results are within a normal range or are only slightly off-track, you will be informed by the nurse over the phone.  If your results indicate that an adjustment in your treatment plan is prudent, you will get a call asking you to make a follow-up appointment to discuss your options.  These in-person discussions are important so that we can provide you with the results of the test, what the result  indicate, and the pros/cons of different treatments that are available to you.  As you can imagine, such a conversation is too in-depth to be accomplished by phone.

Phone Calls

The nurses receive 50-150 calls a day; please be patient during busy times.  Speak clearly, spell the patient's name, and leave a number where you can be reached. Calls are returned in the order they are received, unless an urgent problem takes priority.  A call placed in the morning is usually returned by that afternoon.  An afternoon call is usually returned by the following morning.  If your situation is too urgent to wait for a reply, you should go to the nearest emergency room or walk-in clinic.  

After Hours

We share on-call duties with several other family practices in the area.  After office hours, your call will be forwarded to a message with instructions on reaching the on-call provider.  Try to keep the telephone line clear so your call can be returned.  If your call is about prescriptions, appointments, test results, or referrals, please call back when the office is open.  Be advised that the on-call provider will NOT prescribe pain medication over the phone.  If it's an emergency, go to the nearest emergency room.