Phlebotomy Department
We operate Phlebotomy, or blood test, departments across our London hospital sites (which provide blood tests on a walk-in basis) and local Community GP based services (by appointment only) within Southwark and Lambeth. We also provide a specialist paediatric service based at St Thomas' Hospital.
We primarily see patients who are referred by their Consultant or GP. At Guy’s Hospital we provide a service for GP patients only.
Preparing for your blood test:
Please note - You must make sure you bring the request form given to you by your GP or Consultant to your appointment. This is very important. We cannot perform your blood test without this form. Unfortunately we are unable to offer a printing service for patient request forms. Please contact your GP or referring clinician to obtain your form before attending the phlebotomy clinic.
- Before you leave your GP surgery or Consultant Clinic, please check that the personal information on the form, such as your name, date of birth and address, are correct. If not, ensure details are corrected at the GP surgery or outpatient clinic before you arrive for your blood test.
- Tests such as glucose need to be done while fasting. You must not eat anything 10-12 hours before your blood test and can only drink water. Your doctor will inform you if you need to fast prior to having any other blood test.
Fasting Blood Test
10 - 12 hours before your blood test:
- do not eat any food
- do not drink anything other than water
- do not chew gum
- do not eat mints or cough drops
- do not drink alcohol for 24 hours before your test if you are having a blood test for triglycerides
But you can:
- drink plain water
- take prescribed medications, but only with water
If you are referred to us for Malaria testing and it is outside our normal opening hours, please go directly to the Accident and Emergency Department at St Thomas' Hospital or King's College Hospital. If you are taking medication with food and need to fast before your blood test, please ask your doctor for advice.
Last updated on 17/10/2024
