Messing with the lab tests.

Jellibum · Mar 13, 2006

is it in the computers too which blood test the doc has required? or they just check the sheet and just take your blood samples?

I've worked in both the hospital network and private practice (GP's and the like). I'm not too sure how it works there - but in Oz you can just mark/add what test you want and the pathologist/nurse usually does it however, even if they do cross reference with a computer - the doctor can order the additional test within 48 - 94hrs of the orginal blood test being taken (they usually keep the sample for that long).

Personally, i'd just rock up to the place and plead ignorance - i.e. just state that you DID, in fact, ask the doctor for that test and they just forgot to writre it down. It's just a quick phone call away - takes 5mins and everythings sorted. :confused: :innerconf

Akura · Mar 13, 2006

Hmmm well I haven't checked it off yet. I'm going to do so, but I won't be commited with fraud or messing with papers or something I hope.

And tomorow I just hand the sheet to the blood test people(don't know what they are called) and they take my blood tests according to what it says on the sheet.

EricJRN, MSN, RN · Mar 13, 2006

I think the easiest way to get this done would be to have an open discussion with your doctor, explain why you'd like the test, listen to his rationale of why it's needed or why it might not be, and go from there. I don't know why there would be a need to do anything in secret. If the relationship with your doctor is so poor that you can't communicate on this issue, it might be a sign that it's time to change docs.

Tweety, BSN, RN · Mar 13, 2006

What you're proposing to do is dishonest. Do you honestly think nurses are going to condone that behavior?

Ask for what you need and want, if you don't feel you're getting the proper care and information, switch MDs.

Trauma Columnist · Mar 13, 2006

I agree with Tweety. You wouldn't be asking us unless you knew this wasn't right. Don't do it. Just talk with your doctor. Plus from an insurance angle - if its not necessary, they may question it, then go back to the doctor who says "I didn't order this" and then you get to pay full price for it, plus there will be a question on your reputation.

pannie · Mar 13, 2006

And the result goes to the doctor not directly to you. (At least in the US) Don't you think he/she would feel perhaps you weren't the most trustworthy patient? Call the doctor.....

Katnip, RN · Mar 13, 2006

I have to agree. Ask your doctor to do it.

Usually you get a sheet that goes to the phlebotomist, but the doc's office has a copy as well. You'll be stuck paying for the test if the doc didn't order it. Just call the doc, ask for the test, and have him check it off.

I wouldn't be surprised if you sneak it in that your doc decides to drop you as a patient. Ordering your own tests on the sly does not make for a good relationship.

luvmy2angels · Mar 13, 2006

I must agree to NOT do it. After the tests are run they will fax the results to your MD not you. He will know that HE himself didn't order the test. OR they will cross-reference with a computer, call the MD to confirm and he would deny and the test wouldn't be done anyways!! WHY are you being so secretive and sneaky about it?? If it is something as simple as a blood test why not be honest with your MD and just ask him?? Doctors have been known to stop accepting pts and that could happen if he feels you are being dishonest and messing aroung with his orders. Maybe you should find a new MD that you are comfortable with.

suzanne4, RN · Mar 13, 2006

The request form that the physcian is giving you to take to the lab is actually an order form, you would not change a prescription, this could be considered the same.

And your insurance company could actually charge you for the test, if you decide to order it for yourself and the physcian did not order it.

And remember, that results are not sent to you, they are given to your physician first.

crisscross · Mar 13, 2006

Just stop by the doctor's office before you have your blood drawn and tell them you'd like to add the test... should be no problem. If you add it on your own, when the results come back the doctor is going to think the people in the lab made a mistake. Also, you will have to pay for it if there is no diagnosis code to cover it. Your doctor should have no problem adding a blood test that you request.

CoffeeRTC, BSN, RN · Mar 13, 2006

I"m not sure what the test is or why you want to add it on your own, but did you bring up all of your complaints or concerns with your doctor when you had your visit or are you just acting on a hunch? This is sounding like you are trying to self dx, like many of us nurses try to do.

When we right a lab req up or when I've personally got one for labs, a diagnosis code must be on the form. If you don't have the appropriate ones listed for the lab work, I'm gonna bet it might not be paid for by your insurance.

Call the docs office and ask for the lab, maybe you really don't need it done and thats why the doc didn't order it?