General Frequently Asked Questions

What does the test kit include?

You will receive all the necessary equipment for the doctor to take the blood. This will include a needle, a vacutainer barrel, a test tube and a transport container to protect the test tube in transit.
The test kit will also include detailed instructions on how to carry out the test, and an envelope in which to send the test kit back to the laboratory.

How to complete the test kit?

To view the instructions that are sent out with the Comprehensive Food Allergy Profile test kits please click here

Is there any reason why the sample would be rejected?

Sample requirements vary for each test and the necessary patient preparation can also vary with each test. All test kits are supplied with detailed instructions on how to carry out the test and any patient’s requirements that are necessary. Failure to carry out the test according to the instructions may result in the sample being rejected.

Reasons for rejection of a specimen

If a sample is rejected it may be due to one or more of the following reasons:

• No test form submitted (these are sent out with every kit)
• Sample not clearly labelled with full name, date of birth and collection date
• Sample details not matching those on test request form
• Quantity of sample not sufficient
• Sample took longer than 24 hrs from posting to reach us

If my sample is rejected will I have to pay for another test?

No. If the laboratory rejects your sample you will be automatically sent another test kit to complete. You will incur no additional cost for this procedure.

Is it safe to post back my sample?

Yes. The specimen test tubes provided are made from toughened plastic that cannot break unless extreme force is used. The laboratory has never, in 10 years of operating, seen a broken container.

How do I post back my sample?

The laboratory require the sample to be sent back by guaranteed registered post / special next day delivery. Tests should be sent Monday to Wednesday only.

If I am taking medication or nutritional supplements can I still do the test?

Steroid medication including creams and inhalers and anti-histamines should be avoided 48 hours prior to the blood draw. However, please note that long term steroid use may influence the FACTest results and you should refer to your practitioner or the laboratory before completion of this test.

How do I store the sample before posting?

The blood sample must be sent immediately by special next day delivery.

Does the laboratory provide everything needed to do the test?

Yes, you will receive everything you need to collect the sample and the return envelope to return it directly to the laboratory.