Some doctors collect specimens for laboratory test in their offices, but others do not. If your doctor provided you with an order form for a test, you will need to visit one of our Patient Service Centers (link a Locations) to have your specimen collected.

We have more than 5 patient service center locations around the island, with highly-trained professional staff who will collect your specimen.

All lab testing must begin with an order form from your doctor. Your doctor may prescribe lab testing as part of your visit. Or you can request a specific lab test from your doctor. A lab order can be printed or digital. If your doctor doesn’t hand you a printed lab order, we recommend contacting them prior to your MEDLAB appointment to confirm that it was sent electronically.

Our website will help you find the nearest Patient Service Center to get your testing done. The locator will show you multiple locations, their hours, contact information and maps. Click on the location, and receive printable directions.

Minimize your wait by making an appointment (link a schedule appointments). We do allow walk-ins, but having an appointment is the better way to fit a MEDLAB visit into your day. Scheduling an appointment will also give you the option of getting helpful pre-appointment email and SMS reminders and tips from MEDLAB. If you prefer to walk-in, it helps to known that our Patient Service Centers are usually busiest in the early morning.

Bring the following to your appointment:

a. Lab Order from your Doctor

If your doctor did not give you a paper order at your appointment, check with him or her if they sent it electronically.

b. Photo identification or AZV card

It’s important to also know if your test requires fasting the day before and/or morning of your appointment. Your AZV provider should have indicated this in your lab form or during your visit.

If you have AZV insurance, be sure to bring your active AZV card at your appointment.

If you are not insured, then you will be required to pay for the testing at the time of service.
Make an Appointment

Nutrients and ingredients in the food and beverages you consume are absorbed into your bloodstream and could impact factors measured by certain tests. Fasting improves the accuracy of those tests.

Water hydrates your veins. Hydrated veins are easier to find. And that means easier to draw from. Drink plenty of water before having any blood test.

It depends on the test. Fasting for a lab test typically lasts eight hours. Your doctor should give you any special instructions related to your tests, including fasting requirements. Always follow her or his instructions.

Glucose testing that checks blood-sugar levels and tests that determine your cholesterol, triglycerides, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels usually require fasting. Other lab tests may require fasting, which is why you should ask your doctor. If you think fasting might be a problem, schedule your appointment for the early morning and bring a snack for after the appointment.

If it’s a test that does not require fasting then, yes, please eat something before having your blood drawn.

Unless your doctor says otherwise, take your usual medications. If you’re taking vitamin/mineral supplements, ask whether you should continue those as well.

Once you’ve had your blood drawn, you can eat and drink something immediately. It’s a good idea to bring a snack to your appointment. You can also schedule your blood test for the early morning, to minimize the length of time you’ll go without food.

We have several Patient Service Centers conveniently located around the island. Find a location near you.

Prior to your child’s appointment, discuss your concerns and questions with his or her doctor. This can help you have peace of mind about the testing process.

One of the best ways to set realistic expectations is to not pretend the experience will be painless. Instead of promising that a finger prick or blood draw won’t hurt, reassure your child that the process will be quick, the pain won’t last, and you’ll stay close. After the test, offer praise and comfort as he or she needs.

Schedule the test at a time when your child is less likely to be tired or hungry. If your child is coming in for a blood test, eating beforehand will help decrease any chance of lightheadedness. The only exception to eating prior to the appointment is if your child’s test requires fasting—in which case, it can help to schedule first thing in the morning, and bring a snack for afterward.

You know your child best. Talking about feelings or practicing calming techniques before his or her appointment can help. Make a game of staying still. Teach your child to inhale for three seconds and then exhale. Breathing exercises help your child feel in control of his or her body and helps make it easier to draw.

During a blood draw, help get your child’s mind—and eyes—off the procedure. If watching would be too stressful for them, distract him or her from staring at the needle.

Drinking plenty of water is important for urine and blood tests. Unless specially instructed by his or her doctor, encourage your child to drink water before the office visit. A fuller bladder will help him or her urinate during their appointment. Drinking water also hydrates veins, which can help make a blood draw easier.

You can’t guarantee the experience will be totally pain free for your child. However, these six tips will help increase your chance of an experience that will build confidence.