Sample storage guidance

Synnovis takes all possible steps to ensure that the integrity of samples is maintained prior to them reaching our laboratories for testing.

All vehicles used by our logistics provider GSG are temperature controlled and we have worked with local phlebotomy services to help them safeguard samples prior to collection. We continue to monitor potassium levels in samples, as this allows us to detect any process anomalies.

This is particularly important during the extreme temperatures associated with changeable UK weather patterns. In the worst-case scenario, excessive heat or cold can lead to invalid results. 

Synnovis has a bespoke and regular courier schedule serving practices and healthcare centres across South East London, designed and frequently reviewed to avoid the need for long-term storage at the point of collection.

To view your site's collection times please click the button below.

Collection Times Search   

Logistics and collection changes

In preparation for the transfer of services to the hub, courier routes have been reviewed. As a result, from 13 May, there will be slight changes of up to 15 minutes in collection times for some primary and community care sites.

For a small group of practices (approximately 10) the change will be more notable and we will be contacting those affected directly. However, please note that collection times will remain exactly the same for all practices until 13 May.

These changes are being made to optimise our routes to the new hub laboratory. This enables samples to arrive at the hub sooner and be in transit for less time, so improving sample stability. When undertaking our review, we have considered all information shared with us by practices about specific services scheduled, e.g. phlebotomy clinics.

Please follow the below advice when storing samples for collection:

• All samples should typically be stored at ambient room temperature while awaiting collection
• Do not refrigerate blood samples as these can be affected by the cold, leading to spurious results for some analytes
• Urines for microbiology should be collected in boric acid containers, which will ensure they are stabilised in the event of any delay in processing
• Urines and stool samples for biochemistry can be refrigerated if, for any reason, they had to be stored overnight. However, if you are having to store samples for longer than expected, you should contact the Synnovis Customer Services team so that collection arrangements can be reviewed

For any queries regarding collection arrangements, or to report a delyaed or missing courier collection, please contact the Synnovis Customer Services team by calling 020 4513 7300 or emailing customerservices@synnovis.co.uk

Primary care courier escalation

A new GSG courier escalation process has been developed which provides details for in and out of hours queries and escalations.

Seasonal Variation in Potassium Results