Laboratory Testing Specialist

What is involved in laboratory testing?

Laboratory testing describes comprehensive blood, urine, saliva, and other types of tests necessary to evaluate your child’s health. Many pediatric offices refer patients to outside labs, which delays results and makes for a scheduling challenge.

Great Destinations Pediatrics does many lab tests in-house so that you get faster results and speedy help for your ill child or teen. This also keeps you from having to travel to another office.

What laboratory testing is available?

The providers at Great Destinations offer numerous lab tests, including:

• COVID-19
• Flu (influenza)
• Strep
• Urinalysis
• Hemoccult test (test for blood in the stool)
• Hemoglobin (checks for anemia)
• Blood Glucose (checks for diabetes)
• Pulse oximeter (checks oxygen saturation)

When would my child need laboratory testing?

If your child presents with symptoms of an illness or chronic condition, they may need to undergo laboratory testing.

For example, a sharp, severe, and sudden sore throat would call for a simple strep test. If your child shows symptoms of a urinary tract infection, urinalysis provides information needed to make a correct diagnosis and plan appropriate treatment.

Your providers at Great Destinations Pediatrics may also recommend laboratory testing during some well-child checks. This is especially the case if your child has a chronic disease or another health issue. 

How does laboratory testing work?

Laboratory testing works by analyzing a sample of your blood, urine, or saliva to look for specific pathogens and their levels. During COVID-19 testing, for example, the testing can detect specific proteins that indicate you have the infection.

Past lab results can be compared to current ones to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment and to keep track of any changes in your child’s condition.

Why is in-office laboratory testing an advantage?

When you have access to in-office testing, your child’s needs are met quickly and effectively. 

You don’t have to worry about scheduling a test at another office, waiting for results, filling out additional paperwork, and dealing with insurance payments. You also save travel and wait time.

Plus, your child gets their lab tests done at a familiar place by a friendly staff that they know and trust.

In-office laboratory testing is convenient and helpful in getting your child the proper care quickly. Call Great Destinations Pediatrics today for your appointment or use the online tool to schedule.