SHS: Lab Procedures FAQ's

Yes. All we need is an order from your doctor including a diagnosis, tests wanted, your name, and the doctor's name, address, phone and fax, if applicable. You can bring the orders with you or your doctor can fax them to us at 785.864.9479.

Providers/doctors only order lab tests they need to make a diagnosis or other decisions about ongoing care to keep you healthy. You do have the right to refuse any test; however, as an informed patient, you need to realize that not having those test results may impact your provider's ability to take care of you.

If your lab testing was ordered by a Student Health Services provider, please wait at least 3 days, then you may call between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. for results. Call 864-9500, press 0 for Operator and leave your name and phone number. A nurse will call with your test results by the end of the business day.

If you lab testing was ordered by someone outside of Student Health Services, the lab will send your test results to that provider. Please wait at least 3 days, then contact your provider’s office for the results.

Lab tests at Watkins are generally 20-40% less than the community price. Lab staff will be happy to tell you the cost of any particular test. Call 785.864.9544. (There are hundreds of tests, unfortunately too many to list here). Most insurance policies cover lab tests to some degree. Watkins Business Office can submit your claim if you give them your insurance information.

Having blood drawn is a minimally invasive procedure taking less than a minute. Any pain experienced is brief and, for most people, slight. Our medical technologists have over 90 years (!) combined experience drawing blood and do their utmost to make it a good experience. We also have wonderful, cushy, loungers for you to relax in or a bed to make you comfortable.

The amount depends on the specific tests your provider orders. For most people the amount varies between five and 20 milliliters-- a few teaspoons to a few tablespoons. (FYI the pint taken when you donate blood contains 450 milliliters. Thus, you can see that we are only taking a very small amount for these medical tests.)

Yes. Remember to keep up your fluid intake.

Only for certain tests. The most commonly ordered tests that require fasting are:

lipid panels
fasting blood sugar
triglycerides

Fasting means nothing but water for ten to 12 hours. The lab will be happy to answer this question in regard to any particular test your provider has ordered.