6 Things You Need to Know if You Want a Home Blood Draw
Home doctors and nurses are no longer in the middle ages.
The pandemic has made many people realize that getting a blood draw at home is far more convenient than visiting a hospital or clinic.
So if you’re thinking about getting your blood or a loved one’s drawn at home, read this article to find out six things before booking an appointment.
Top Reasons Why People Want a Home Blood Draw
The pandemic reshaped how people book appointments and attend doctor’s visits.
What initially seemed unusual to do everything online has become the new normal for many people.
The same goes for blood draws, as they can now be done at home with the help of a professional phlebotomist.
There are several reasons why people would instead get their blood drawn at home as opposed to going to a clinic or hospital.
1. It’s More Convenient
The US Federal Highway Administration reported that traffic volumes hit a wall this past June. It seems that fewer people are commuting, which means less time spent in traffic.
It’s no wonder people are now opting to have online doctor appointments, and at-home blood draws to save time.
2. You Can Avoid Exposure to Illness
When you go to a public place, you’re at a higher risk of exposure to germs and illness.
Medical facilities are no exception. Especially in cold and flu season, you’re more likely to catch something if you go to a hospital or clinic.
That’s why many people choose to minimize their exposure by having a professional phlebotomist come to their home for a blood draw.
3. Avoid Anxiety by Getting It Done In the Comfort of Your Home
For some people, the idea of having a needle stuck in their arm is enough to make them faint.
If you’re someone who doesn’t like needles or feels anxious about having a blood draw, getting it done in the comfortable space of your own home can make the experience much better.
4. You Can Have It Done On Your Schedule
If you have a busy schedule, finding time to go to a hospital or clinic for a blood draw can be difficult.
With at-home blood draws, you can have it done on your schedule, so you don’t have to be forced to take time out of your day to go somewhere.
5. Much Easier for Remote Workers and Travelers
With the current surge in remote work, many opt for online bookings for restaurants and medical appointments.
If you work remotely or often travel, getting blood draw at home can be much easier than trying to find and look for a clinic or hospital in a new city.
At-home blood draws are becoming increasingly popular and for a good reason.
At-home blood draws make it much easier for remote workers and travelers to get blood drawn without taking time out of their schedules.
6. You Can Get Results Faster
When you have a blood draw at a clinic or hospital, your blood has to be sent to a lab for testing.
This can take a few days, which is frustrating if you’re waiting for results.
With at-home blood draws, your blood can be drawn and sent to the lab for testing all in one day. This means you can get results faster.
Moreover, there are Lapcorp home draw kits through 3rd parties, which make the process easier and safer for patients.
So if you want to go forward with an at-home blood draw, move to the next section to find out what you need to do to prepare.
What You Need Before Booking a Home Blood Draw
Getting started with a home blood draw isn’t difficult if you know what you need.
Here’s a list of what you’ll need to have on hand before your phlebotomist arrives:
1. A Doctor’s Order
Just like with a regular blood test, you need a doctor’s order to get a home blood draw.
Your doctor will likely give you a paper copy of the order, but you can also ask for an electronic copy that you can email to your phlebotomist. This is, so the phlebotomist knows what tests to run on your blood.
2. Your Insurance Information
You’ll need to have your insurance information on hand so the phlebotomist can submit a claim to your insurance company.
If you’re not insured, you may be able to get a discount on the cost of the blood draw if you pay cash.
Different insurance packages will cover home blood draws to varying degrees, so you must check with your insurance provider prior to scheduling your home draw appointment.
3. A List of Medications You’re Taking
It’s essential to let the phlebotomist know what medications you’re taking. Some medicines can affect the results of specific tests.
So consult your doctor and make a list of all the medications you’re currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
4. A List of Allergies You Have
You should also let the phlebotomist know if you have any allergies. This is so they can take appropriate precautions to avoid triggering an allergic reaction.
5. A Photo ID
You’ll need to show the phlebotomist your photo ID when they arrive. They can verify your identity and make sure you’re the person who’s supposed to be getting the blood draw.
Remember that the ID is recent, as some phlebotomists may not accept expired IDs.
6. A List of Questions You Want to Ask
It’s a good idea to write down any questions you have about the blood draw before the phlebotomist arrives. That way, you can ensure all your questions are answered before the procedure is over.
Prepare for a Home Blood Draw and Book an Appointment
Preparing for a home blood draw is simple if you know what you need.
Just make sure you have a doctor’s order, your insurance information, and a photo ID on hand. You should also write down any important questions you have to ensure they’re answered before the procedure is over.
If you have any allergies, let the phlebotomist know so they can take appropriate precautions. And if you’re taking any medications, make sure to list them, so the phlebotomist is aware.
Once you have everything you need, the rest is easy. Just relax and let the phlebotomist do their job. Before you know it, the procedure will be over, and you’ll have your results!
