1. Do I need to schedule my Lab testing?
2. Do I need to fast prior to testing?
3. Do I need a doctor's order?
4. Does my insurance cover Lab testing?
5. I have a standing order from my doctor. Can you help me?
6. How do I get copies of my lab work?
Do I need to schedule my lab testing?
Generally, NO. Most procedures can be performed any time during lab hours. If you are to have a Glucose Tolerance test performed, please call the laboratory at 419-468-4841 ext. 5703, to schedule this procedure.
Do I need to fast prior to testing?
Some tests do require patient preparation. Lipid panels, Glucose Tolerance Test, and Fasting Glucose are common tests that require prior fasting. Usually 8-12 hours fasting is sufficient. ALWAYS FOLLOW YOUR PHYSICIANS DIRECTIONS FOR TESTING. (Though a lab test may not require fasting, other procedures such as X-rays may).
Do I need a doctor's order?
Yes. A written order, signed by your doctor is required for testing. The order should contain the names of the procedures required, the reason(s) for the test(s), the date and your name. The reason for testing which your doctor provides is very important. If the reason does not cover the test, then you may be financially responsible for the test.
and
No. Some testing is available from our laboratory without a doctor's order. HIV, and Urine Drug Screens are provided upon a patient request. However, payment is required prior to specimen collection. We will ask for the name of your family physician so that the results of these tests may be interpreted and patient follow-up performed, when indicated.
Does my insurance cover Lab testing?
Generally, lab services are covered. However, some insurance companies may require that you use a specific laboratory or pay a deductible or co-pay. Please verify with your insurance company your coverage before having lab work performed. Your insurance card may have a telephone number for inquires concerning your contract and coverage.
Medicare may not cover some services. You will be informed when a test is not covered. If you choose to have the testing done, the hospital will bill you for non-covered procedures. This is called "Advanced Beneficiary Notice".
I have a standing order from my doctor. Can you help me?
Yes. A written order, signed by your doctor is required for testing. The order should contain the names of the procedures, the frequency and duration (e.g. "weekly Protime for two months"), the reason(s) for the test(s), the date and your name. The reason for testing which your doctor provides is very important.. If the reason does not cover the test, then you may be financially responsible for the test.
In some cases, Galion Community Hospital will register you at the beginning of the standing order. This registration is called a "Series" account. As a "Series" Lab Patient, you may go directly to the laboratory collection area each time you are to have the ordered procedures performed. The Series account was designed to help reduce the time a patient must spend in our hospital having repeat lab testing performed. Periodically, we ask that you stop at the registration desk to verify that your insurance information is current.
How do I get copies of my lab work?
Copies of your lab reports can be obtained from the Health Information Department (Medical Records).
To assure patient confidentiality, the giving of results over the telephone is strongly discouraged. Please inquire at the time of specimen collection
On request, fax services are provided to send copies of lab reports to your physician office. Please verify you physician's fax number and provide this information and your fax request, at the time of specimen collection.
Special needs, such as same day processing and reporting, can be arranged with the laboratory. Please inquire at the time of the specimen collection.
Questions regarding Lab testing may be directed to the laboratory at 419-468-4841 ext. 5703