Wondering about that monthly blood test? This lab will still see you
At a time when many physicians have opted for telemedicine, your doctor might see you — but just virtually.
The person drawing your blood, though, can’t rely on this kind of modern technology in the new world carved by COVID-19.
As advanced as telemedicine seems to be, there are still some routine things virtual screenings can’t achieve.
Like the blood test.
Many patients, like those on medications to treat things like high cholesterol or blood pressure, get regular blood tests. Doctors want to know if the organs like the kidney, liver or thyroid are functioning properly and blood work is often the best indicator.
These tests require visits to your doctor’s in-house lab — if they still maintain one, and many are not seeing patients right now except in emergencies or special cases. Or you are sent to one of the major testing centers like Quest Diagnostics.
But are they still seeing patients for these kind of tests?
“As an essential service, Quest’s doors remain open,” said Quest spokeswoman Kimberly Gorode.
“Quest has strong safety procedures in place at all times,” she said. “These protect patients and employees from coming into contact with any infectious diseases. During the COVID-19 public health crisis, we have taken more precautions.”
Among the strengthened measures, Gorode points to:
▪ Providing gloves to patients as requested.
▪ Disinfecting all surfaces more frequently.
▪ Washing hands more frequently.
▪ Enhanced COVID-19 safety training for employees.
“Also, patients who suspect they have COVID-19 should not come to our patient service centers,” Gorode said. “They should contact their doctor or an authorized healthcare provider.”
Quest is not planning on moving toward a drive-through option similar to how people are getting swabbed for the coronavirus from inside their cars at large venues like Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens or Marlins Park in Miami.
Logistically, this would be difficult as most Quest locations are tucked into storefronts in strip malls.
“We try to maintain appropriate social distancing in our patient service centers,” Gorode said. “We also encourage patients to make an appointment — and prioritize patient appointments — so they’re not waiting in the waiting room for extended periods of time.”
Quest announced on Tuesday it has begun doing COVID-19 antibody testing and can do blood draws at any of its 2,200 patient service centers nationwide.
This story was originally published April 24, 2020 at 2:14 PM.
