General Frequently Asked Questions
What does the test kit include?
You will receive all the necessary equipment for an authorised physician, nurse or other appropriately qualified person to take the blood sample.
What are you are expected to provide us with?
The test requires that you provide a blood sample. A test kit will be sent to you and the sample must be drawn by a doctor/nurse or other appropriately qualified person and should never be undertaken by an unauthorised person. Local health centres, GP surgeries and hospitals (including private hospitals) should be able to assist you. If you live in or around London there are two phlebotomy sites that you can visit to have your blood taken, as detailed below. There may be a 'small charge' by the doctor for this service so please check with them before hand. All patients are required to take the IWDL test kit and paperwork with them to their appointment. Please note that the sample should be separated shortly after being drawn, therefore please ensure the nurse/doctor has access to facilities that will enable this process to happen.
IWDL (appointment only): 356 West Barnes Lane, New Malden, Surrey KT3 6NB. Tel: 020-8336-7750
TDL (no appointment necessary): 55 Wimpole Street, London W1G 8LQ. Tel: 020-7460-4800
How to complete the test kit?
To view the instructions that are sent out with the Homocysteine test kits please click here.
What can I eat or drink before the test ?
There are no fasting requirements for this test, so you can eat and drink normally.
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?
Medication or supplementation does not need to be stopped.
How do I store the sample before posting?
It is vital that the blood sample is centrifuge and separated within 30 minutes of the sample being taken and then posted special next day delivery to IWDL, Monday to Wednesday only.
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.
Homocysteine Test
Availability: In Stock
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