How to Book a Blood Test Through the NHS
You cannot usually book an NHS blood test unless a GP, nurse or specialist has asked for one. Here is how booking works once they have, and how to get ready.
Updated · 5 min read
To book an NHS blood test, you first need a GP, nurse or specialist to decide you need one. They will then tell you how to book, which is usually by phoning your GP surgery, using your surgery's or hospital's online booking system, or going to a hospital blood test clinic. Some GP surgeries and hospitals let you book online.
Why you need a request first
On the NHS, blood tests are arranged by a healthcare professional who has a reason to check something. The NHS website says a blood test may be done to check your general health, find the cause of symptoms, see if you are more likely to get a condition, or check how well a condition is being treated.
The professional decides which tests to order. Common ones include a full blood count, blood glucose, cholesterol (lipid profile), kidney function and thyroid tests. The request tells the laboratory exactly what to check, so you cannot simply turn up and ask for any test.
If you think you need a blood test, speak to your GP surgery. If you want tests that the NHS has not offered, private blood tests are available, but you pay for them yourself.
Where NHS blood tests are done
Blood tests are usually done at a GP surgery or a hospital. Depending on your area, you may be sent to:
- your own GP surgery, with a nurse or healthcare assistant
- another local surgery or community clinic
- a hospital outpatient blood test clinic, sometimes called phlebotomy
The person who requested the test will tell you which applies to you.
How to book the appointment
At your GP surgery
Phone the surgery, use its online booking or the NHS App if blood test appointments are offered there, or ask at reception. Mention who asked for the test and when it needs to be done.
At a hospital clinic
Many hospitals ask you to book a slot online or by phone. Some still run walk-in sessions. Your request form, letter or the hospital's website usually explains how to book. If you are unsure, phone the hospital switchboard or the department that asked for the test.
Tests needed by a certain date
Some tests need to be done at a particular time, for example a set number of days before a hospital appointment or at a set time of day if you take certain medicines. Check the timing with the person who requested the test before you book.
Getting ready for your blood test
The GP, nurse or specialist should tell you if you need to prepare. For some tests, you may need to:
- not eat or drink anything except water for a set time beforehand (fasting)
- stop taking certain medicines for a short time, such as some blood-thinning medicines
Only stop a medicine if you have been told to by the person who requested the test.
It also helps to:
- drink some water beforehand, unless you have been told not to
- wear a top with sleeves that roll up easily
- bring your request form or any letter you were given
- bring a list of your medicines if you are going to a hospital clinic
What happens during the test
The test usually takes about 10 minutes. A healthcare professional puts a soft strap around your arm, then takes a small amount of blood with a needle, usually from the inside of your elbow. You will feel a scratch as the needle goes in.
The blood goes into small tubes that are sent to a laboratory. You are given cotton wool or a plaster afterwards. Some bruising is common and should fade within a few days.
If you are nervous about needles, tell the person taking your blood. You can also bring someone with you for support.
Blood tests for children
Children's blood tests are often done at a hospital children's unit or a specialist clinic rather than at the GP surgery. The person who requested the test will tell you where to go. Ask whether numbing cream is available, as it is offered in some places.
After your blood test
You will usually get results within a few days to a few weeks. Some GP surgeries only contact you if the results need to be discussed, so ask how you will be told. You may be able to see results in the NHS App if you are 16 or over. Our guide on how long blood test results take explains this in more detail.
Common blood tests and what they check
The NHS website lists some common types:
| Test | Why it is done |
|---|---|
| Full blood count (FBC) | Checks blood cells, for example for iron deficiency anaemia |
| Blood glucose | Checks blood sugar, to diagnose or manage diabetes |
| Urea and electrolytes | Checks substances in the blood, including kidney function |
| Lipid profile | Measures cholesterol, to assess heart and stroke risk |
| Total protein | Checks for problems with the liver or kidneys |
| Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) | Checks for thyroid conditions, such as an underactive thyroid |
Common booking questions
Can I book a blood test in the NHS App?
Sometimes. It depends on whether your GP surgery offers blood test appointments online. Many hospital blood test clinics use their own booking systems instead.
Can I have my blood test at a different hospital?
Possibly. Some areas let you go to any of several local clinics. Ask the person who requested the test.
What if I miss my appointment?
Contact the surgery or clinic to rebook. If the test was needed before a hospital appointment, let the hospital know too.
Sources
Checked on 14 October 2026:
- NHS website: Blood tests
- NHS website: View your test results
- NHS website: Appointments and bookings at your GP surgery
This guide explains the general rules for staff in England using 2026/27 figures. It is not financial advice. Your employer, payslip or NHS Pensions statement has the final word on your own pay.