General health education · Reviewed by Nicholas O. Atudonyang, MD, Medical Director, on October 18, 2026. Not a diagnosis or an individual care plan.
Ask what the test is for
Before testing, ask what question it addresses, whether preparation is needed, where it will be performed, and what charges may be separate. Not every test is appropriate for every person or every visit.
Set a communication plan
Ask when results are expected and whom to contact if you have not heard back. Confirm the practice’s secure communication method. This website does not provide a patient portal or publish your results.
A flagged result needs context
An item marked outside a reference range is not by itself a complete diagnosis. A clinician considers your history, symptoms, other results, and why the test was ordered. Ask what the result means and whether repeat testing or follow-up is recommended.
Close the loop
If testing occurred at another facility, confirm the report reached the practice. Write down the next step and when it should happen. Do not assume that no message means a normal result. New severe symptoms need appropriate care even if you are waiting for a report.
Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. Do not wait for a routine appointment, phone call back or email reply.