Laboratory

Laboratory

South Peninsula Hospital’s Clinical Laboratory plays a critical role in detecting, diagnosing, and monitoring disease. From routine bloodwork to highly complex molecular testing, our team provides the investigative information physicians rely on to guide care decisions.

We are a modern, fully equipped, CLIA-certified laboratory capable of performing highly complex testing. Our staff includes certified medical laboratory professionals with specialized education in laboratory science.

Our laboratory supports any physician-ordered test and also provides self-referred drug screening services. We continually expand our testing capabilities to meet the evolving needs of our community.

Patients may visit our main hospital laboratory or our convenient walk-in lab located at South Peninsula Family Care Clinic. No appointment or advance registration is required, and individuals with lab orders from any provider or clinic are welcome.

Services

Diagnostic and Monitoring Testing

Our laboratory performs a wide range of physician-ordered diagnostic and monitoring tests to support detection, diagnosis, and ongoing management of medical conditions. The majority of tests are performed in-house, which means faster results, quicker answers, and earlier treatment. When specialized testing must be sent out, our team coordinates it seamlessly.

Our laboratory is CLIA-certified and participates in rigorous federal and state quality oversight programs to ensure accuracy and reliability. Ongoing proficiency testing, strict regulatory standards, and continuous education are built into everything we do.

Wellness Screenings

Most laboratory testing requires an order from a licensed healthcare provider so results can be reviewed and appropriately followed up. We do not offer ongoing self-directed “request-a-test” services.

However, discounted self-referred wellness screenings—such as lipid panels, TSH, CBC, Vitamin D, PSA, and Hemoglobin A1C—are available annually through the Rotary Health Fair each November. Additional details about available tests and event information can be found at rotaryhealthfair.org.

Drug Screening and Occupational Testing

We provide self-referred drug screening services for individuals, employers, and occupational requirements. All testing is conducted according to strict regulatory standards to ensure accuracy and reliability. Whether testing is required for employment, compliance, or other official purposes, our team maintains a secure and professional process.

What to Expect as a Patient

Check-In and Registration

If you visit the main hospital laboratory, please check in at the front desk upon arrival before proceeding to the lab. If you visit the Family Care Clinic draw station, you will register at their front desk.

Bring Your Lab Order

Your provider will either send your lab order directly to us or provide you with one to bring. Having a complete and accurate order ensures we collect the correct specimens and perform the appropriate tests.

Preparing for Your Test

Your provider will give you specific instructions if preparation is required. Some common guidelines include:

Lipid Panel: Fast for 8–12 hours prior to testing, if requested by physician.
Blood Tests: Wear clothing with sleeves that can be easily rolled up.
Urine Tests: Be prepared to provide a urine sample.

If you have questions about preparation, please call your provider or the laboratory before your visit.

Results and Follow-Up

Results are sent directly to your ordering provider and are typically available quickly in MyChart. Your provider will review your results and contact you if follow-up care or additional testing is needed.

FAQ

What types of tests do you perform?

We perform a wide range of physician-ordered laboratory tests, from routine bloodwork to highly complex diagnostic and molecular testing. The majority of testing is completed in-house, allowing for faster results and timely clinical decision-making.

Do I need a referral or lab order?

Most laboratory testing requires an order from a licensed healthcare provider so results can be reviewed and appropriately followed up.

We do provide self-referred drug screenings for employment, certification (including boating captain requirements), and other non-diagnostic purposes.

Discounted self-referred wellness screenings—such as lipid panel, TSH, CBC, Vitamin D, PSA, and Hemoglobin A1C—are available annually through the Rotary Health Fair each fall. Learn more at rotaryhealthfair.org.

Can I make an appointment?

Most laboratory services are available on a walk-in basis and do not require an appointment. However, certain specialized tests or drug screenings may require scheduling or must be performed on specific days.

We recommend calling ahead to confirm that your lab order has been received and to check whether any preparation or scheduling is needed.

Is my lab order there?

There can sometimes be a short delay between when your provider places an order and when it is received by the laboratory. If you would like to confirm that your order is on file before coming in, please call the lab and we’ll be happy to check for you.

Do I need to fast for my test?

Your provider will let you know if fasting is required. Common preparation guidelines include:

Lipid Panel: Fast for 10–12 hours.
Blood Tests: Wear sleeves that can be easily rolled up.
Urine Tests: Be prepared to provide a urine sample.

If you are unsure, please call your provider or the laboratory before your visit.

Where should I go for my lab work?

Lab services are available at:

Main Hospital Laboratory
Walk-in Lab at South Peninsula Family Care Clinic, 4201 Bartlett Street

Drug screenings and urine collections must be completed at the main hospital laboratory. If you’re unsure which location is best for your test, please call and we can guide you.

Why aren’t some tests available every day?

Certain specialized tests must be sent to outside reference laboratories and may have strict handling or shipping requirements. Because of these stability windows, some tests can only be collected on specific days. We recommend calling ahead if you have a specialized order so we can ensure the timing is right.

How long will my results take?

Most in-house blood tests are completed within 24 hours. Some tests are performed in batches or sent to specialized reference laboratories, which may take longer. If your test is a send-out, turnaround time depends on the receiving laboratory. Results are sent directly to your ordering provider and are typically available in MyChart.

How much will my test cost?

Pricing varies depending on the type of test and your insurance coverage. Our team can assist with general pricing information, though some specialized or send-out tests may require additional time to provide accurate estimates. We encourage patients to contact their insurance provider for coverage details.