Laboratory Testing

We can perform the tests your provider (doctor or nurse practitioner) needs to create the best treatment plan for you. We strive to make your experience in our lab as pleasant and efficient as possible.

Please let us know if you have worries about your lab test. Our phlebotomists are experienced at working with patients who are nervous when giving blood samples and help you feel at ease.

Our compassionate team is highly trained and fully accredited. Our lab is staffed with experts analyzing test samples 24 hours a day so your doctor can receive and discuss your results with you as soon as possible.

How to prepare for lab testing

How do I prepare for fasting lab work? 

Please follow any specific instructions your provider or their care team give you. Otherwise, do not eat or drink anything other than water for 8 hours before you arrive for your lab test.

Fasting patients are prioritized first, from 6:00 to 8:00 am. If this doesn’t work for you, then eat an early breakfast, fast for 8 hours, then come for your test in the afternoon.

Do I need to take my medication differently before my lab test? 

Make sure your provider knows all the medications you are taking when they order your lab work. If they order a fasting test, ask them about medications you usually take with food. If your provider doesn’t give you specific instructions, you should follow your normal medication instructions.

What if I’ve had problems with lab work before? 

Please let us know. If you have been anxious or it has been difficult for you to give a blood or urine sample in the past, we can work with you and make adjustments.

What can I do to make my child more comfortable with their lab test? 

Giving a blood sample can be stressful for some children. Most children reflect the emotions of their parents. It is most important for you to be calm and positive so your child can relax and be less stressed.

If you feel it would be better for your child, let us know if you plan to wait outside while our phlebotomists do the lab work.

What else can I do to prepare? 

Drink plenty of water and wear warm clothes. Being well-hydrated and warm helps you give better samples for lab testing. If you are giving a blood sample, bring a snack or plan to stop by our cafe on the lower level after your test.

Urine samples

What if my doctor gives me a cup for a urine sample? 

Some doctors ask patients to give a urine sample at home and drop it off instead of giving the sample at our lab. Please follow your doctor’s instructions. 

Make sure you label the sample with:

• Your full legal name
• Your date of birth
• The date and time you collected the sample 

Check that the container is not leaking, then place it in a fully-sealed biohazard bag before bringing it to our lab.

Your appointment

Your doctor’s care team schedules the day of your lab test, but not the time. You may walk in at any time during our open hours on that day.

Testing is first-come, first-served, except between 6:00 and 8:00 am, when we see fasting patients first.

If you cannot make it on your scheduled day, choose the soonest day that works for you. You do not need to call our lab to cancel or schedule an appointment.

Where to go and what to bring

Where do I register? 

Please come directly to our lab to check in for lab work. Our office opens onto the main lobby of Cheshire Medical Center, just past Central Registration on the left.

Do I need my identification and insurance information?

Yes. Bring everything you would to a regular doctor’s appointment. To make sure our patients receive personalized care, we confirm each service and treatment by asking for your legal name and date of birth at every step.

What if the provider who ordered my test is outside the Dartmouth Health system? 

If your doctor doesn’t practice at a Dartmouth Health location, please bring the written order for testing with you. Only licensed medical providers can order lab testing.

Test results

How do I get my test results?

Call the office of the provider who ordered your lab work. Our lab is not legally allowed to give test results directly to you without a waiver from your provider.

Often, your test results are available through the myDH patient portal and in the MyChart phone app as soon as they are ready. You should still speak with your doctor about what the test results mean for your health and care plan.