why can't people be able to read their own blood test, it is their bodies !

[froggy999]

I know that Dr.s need a finger in the money pie, but when a person is below poverty level, and can't afford any fancy dr. to help them to read their own blood test, I think that the people should be able to read their own, and then determine the care that they choose.   It is our own bodies, why shouldn't we at least be educated to read our own.!

[bluebutterfly2222]

Sorry, typo. I meant to say $200 to $300, and that may be a conservative estimate, since I have not used the full-price method for a number of years...

[bluebutterfly2222]

As several of us pointed out, patients have a right to copies of all of their medical records, including reports from bloodwork, other tests, and even operative records (a detailed account of exactly what was done during a surgery).

However, what I was bringing to your attention, since you are concerned about expense, is that some facilities allow you to obtain basic bloodwork  WITHOUT the need for a doctor's visit, or a doctor's order.

At my local hospital, I can get a CBC (complete blood count) and a comprehensive chemical profile, including a full cholesterol panel, without a doctor's order, for $30. (Normally, with a doctor's visit and regular lab charges, this could run $100-$300!)
This may not be the  best choice for everyone, but it is an important option for those of us who have no, or limited, insurance coverage.

Check around to see if this is offered in your area.

Best wishes...

[japdip]

You certainly have the right to ask for a copy of any report, including your blood work. As a rule the normal values are also included on most blood work reports so you would know if your values are above or below the norm. Beyond that there isn't much else you could do ..... as far as deciding what medical care is appropriate; unless you've been to Medical School this is a foolish idea. Regards ..

[Tina2678]

By law you are entitlled to every single piece of your medical record from any provider.  All you have to do is sign a release form which they must provide.

[bluebutterfly2222]

Some places you CAN obtain your own basic bloodwork, and have the results sent directly to you.  For example, my local hospital offers low-cost "wellness profiles" for several months, twice a year.  You might check if this option is available in your area.

You also have the right to obtain your own copy of bloodwork and other tests performed on you, even when they have been ordered by a doctor.  When I have bloodwork, I often request that the results be faxed to me, and in many cases it reaches my home before I do.

But many people do not understand such tests, or are frightened at the prospect of getting abnormal results and not being able to immediately discuss their implications with a doctor, so they choose to have their results sent to their doctors.