How to get a blood test referral online
If you need a blood test, you typically need a referral from a GP. At NewDoc, you can get this referral through a bulk billed telehealth consultation without visiting a clinic. Book an appointment, speak with an AHPRA-registered GP via video or phone, and your pathology referral will be emailed to you directly after the consultation.
You then take your referral to any pathology collection centre in Australia. Most centres accept walk-ins, and your results are sent back to your NewDoc GP who will contact you to discuss the findings.
Common blood tests your GP can order
Your NewDoc GP can order a wide range of pathology tests depending on your symptoms, health concerns, or routine health check needs. Common blood tests include full blood count (FBC) to check for anaemia, infection, and other blood conditions, liver function tests (LFTs) and kidney function tests (eGFR, creatinine), cholesterol and lipid profile to assess cardiovascular risk, blood glucose and HbA1c for diabetes screening and monitoring, thyroid function tests (TSH, T3, T4), iron studies and ferritin for iron deficiency, vitamin D and vitamin B12 levels, and hormone panels including testosterone, oestrogen, and progesterone.
Your GP can also order STI screening panels, coeliac disease testing, inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR), urine tests, and other pathology as clinically indicated. The specific tests depend on your individual situation and will be discussed during your consultation.
Routine health checks
Many Australians benefit from regular blood tests as part of a routine health check. Your GP can order a general health screening panel that typically includes cholesterol, blood sugar, liver and kidney function, full blood count, and thyroid function. This is particularly recommended if you have a family history of chronic conditions, are over 40, or have not had blood work done recently.
A telehealth consultation is a convenient way to arrange routine pathology without taking time off work or visiting a clinic. Your GP will review your results and contact you to discuss any findings that need attention.
What to expect at the pathology centre
After receiving your referral by email, you can visit any pathology collection centre in Australia. Major providers include Laverty Pathology, Douglass Hanly Moir, QML Pathology, Australian Clinical Labs, and Sullivan Nicolaides. Most centres accept walk-ins during business hours, though booking ahead can reduce wait times.
Some blood tests require fasting (no food or drink other than water for 8 to 12 hours before collection). Your GP will advise you during your consultation if fasting is required for any of your tests.
Getting your results
Pathology results are sent electronically to your NewDoc GP. Most routine blood tests are returned within one to three business days. Some specialised tests may take longer. Your GP will review the results and contact you to discuss any findings.
If any results require follow-up, your GP can arrange a further telehealth consultation to discuss treatment options, adjust medication, or provide referrals to specialists if needed. All follow-up consultations are also bulk billed for eligible Medicare patients.
Preparing for your blood test
Preparation depends on which blood tests your GP has ordered. Some tests, such as fasting glucose and cholesterol, require you to fast for 8 to 12 hours beforehand, drinking only water. Other tests, including a full blood count, generally do not require fasting. Your GP will let you know during your bulk billed telehealth consultation whether any special preparation is needed.
Staying well hydrated before your appointment can make the blood draw easier, as hydration helps veins become more visible. If you are anxious about needles, let the pathology collector know so they can take extra care. Wearing a top with loose sleeves also makes access to the inner elbow straightforward.
Why choose an online GP for your pathology referral
Visiting a clinic in person for a pathology referral can mean taking time off work, arranging transport, and sitting in a waiting room. With an online blood test referral, you can speak to an AHPRA-registered GP from home, the office, or anywhere with an internet connection. The consultation typically takes only a few minutes, and your referral is emailed to you straight away.
NewDoc's telehealth service is designed to make accessing routine healthcare simpler for Australians in metro, regional, and rural areas alike. Because the consultation is bulk billed through Medicare, there is no out-of-pocket cost for eligible patients. If your GP identifies a need for specialist referral or ongoing management, that can also be arranged during the same appointment.