Blood Testing in Mississippi

Blood tests in Mississippi can help you keep tabs on your health and ensure any current treatments are working properly. Regular blood testing is a great way to monitor your health, keeping you and your health care professionals informed.

Unfortunately, Mississippi residents rank well above the national death rates of cancer, heart disease, and diabetes – but regular blood testing could help. Heart disease is especially troubling for Mississippi residents, with 298.7 heart disease deaths per 100,000 residents, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Blood tests can reveal:

  • Conditions such as anemia, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease
  • General health status using tests such as complete blood count, urinalysis, and cholesterol level
  • Hormone imbalances and the presence of pregnancy hormones
  • Nutritional deficiencies, including vitamin B12 and vitamin D
  • Some sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as HIV, hepatitis, and syphilis

There are numerous Mississippi blood testing resources where you can get testing and answers to your questions, sometimes for free or at a low cost. For example, Maxem Health Urgent Care provides several outpatient clinical lab tests, discounts, and payment plans for uninsured people. Another is North Laurel Family Medicine, which offers services regardless of your ability to pay.

Mississippi Blood Testing Directory

To help you locate an accredited laboratory/testing center, a list of resources has been compiled and can be found below.

Consult with your health care provider about any lab testing that you may be considering. It is also important to follow up with your health care provider to discuss your results within the context of your medical history.

Health Statistics in Mississippi

Mississippi’s reported deaths for cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and HIV are all above the national average. But with early detection, death rates could be improved. Reported deaths in Mississippi include:

Mississippi vs USA death rates

Source: CDC National Center for Health Statistics Mortality Dashboard

Common Blood Tests

Should you get a blood test? Learn about some of the most common blood tests and what they’re used for.

Blood Testing in Mississippi:

Mississippi Community Health Testing Centers

Community-based health testing organizations generate awareness and foster social change while providing access to testing and treatment.

If you’re concerned about visiting your regular doctor or can’t afford the cost of private testing, a community testing center may be able to help. While community testing centers may charge a fee for blood testing, it’s common to find free or low-cost testing from these resources:

Frequently Asked Questions About Blood Tests in Mississippi

Can I order my own blood tests in Mississippi?

Depending on the test, you can order your blood tests in Mississippi.

Can I request a blood test without seeing a doctor?

It is becoming more common to use direct access testing or direct-to-consumer testing; this is getting your blood work by going to a lab or ordering a test online. When doing so, you will not need a doctor’s prescription.

How much does blood testing cost in Mississippi?

Blood testing prices vary depending on the type of test you need. Your health insurance coverage also plays a big role since it may or may not cover, or partially cover, the testing costs. Lastly, where you get your testing done can impact the cost. When in doubt, you can call your health plan or your health care provider to get more information about what your testing might cost you.

Can I use insurance to get my blood tested?

Your health insurance will often cover your blood work, but it depends on your plan. You may also have to cover any deductible or copayment that you have. Check with your lab or health care provider if they accept your insurance.

How often should I get my blood tested?

You may need to get your blood tested once per year if you are in good health or more often if you have a known condition or take certain medications. It’s a conversation you should have with your doctors.

Can you eat or drink while fasting for a blood test?

You may have to refrain from eating or drinking for a set number of hours for certain kinds of blood tests. For others, you will not have to fast. Check for pre-testing instructions or ask the lab when you book your appointment.

What does routine blood work check for?

Checking certain levels in your blood is a quick way to help your doctors monitor how your body is functioning. For example, exams like a complete blood count (which measures your red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and hemoglobin) can be very informative. Routine tests can help identify an infection or rule out a potential diagnosis.

Another common test is the basic metabolic panel, which measures blood glucose, calcium, and electrolyte levels.

Health Resources in Mississippi

Now that you know that blood testing can help you monitor your health, you should take some time to stay informed about various health topics. You can start by turning to one of these resources offered in Mississippi.

Sources

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