Blood Testing in Washington, D.C.

If you’re seeking blood tests in the District of Columbia, you may be looking to take control of your health, identify health conditions, and track the progress of treatments. Regular blood testing is a great way to monitor your health, keeping you and your health care professionals informed.

District of Columbia residents rank lower than the national average in death rates of cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. However, rates of HIV deaths are far above the national average, at over four times as prevalent. All of these diseases are easily detected early by a blood test, and treatable if caught early enough. Heart disease alone is responsible for 194.8 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 such as HIV, hepatitis, and syphilis

There are numerous District of Columbia blood testing resources where you can get testing and answers to your questions, sometimes for free or at a low cost. For example, HOYA Clinic and Elaine Ellis Center of Health provide clinical lab tests to low-income and uninsured patients in the area at their free clinics.

Some clinics offer payment plan options or reduced self-pay rates, such as Xcel Urgent Care.

Washington, D.C. 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 Washington, D.C.

The District of Columbia’s reported deaths for cancer, heart disease, and diabetes are all below national averages. HIV deaths, however, are more than four times as prevalent as the national average. Early detection is the key to keeping these rates under control. Reported deaths in the District of Columbia include:

Washington, DC 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.

Washington, D.C. 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 Washington, D.C.

Can I order my own blood tests in Washington, D.C.?

Yes, you can order your own blood tests in the District of Columbia, though your insurance is less likely to cover a direct access test rather than one ordered by a doctor.

Can I request a blood test without seeing a doctor?

Nowadays, you can get some blood tests done by going directly to a lab or ordering a test online. This is sometimes called direct access testing or direct-to-consumer testing,

How much does blood testing cost in Washington, D.C.?

Blood testing costs vary depending on a few factors, including the type of health insurance coverage you have, which test you are getting done, and where it’s being done. Some tests may be free of cost if your insurance covers you or if you opt to visit a free clinic. In general, there are lots of affordable options for basic blood work used in preventative care. Other highly specialized blood tests can be more expensive.

Can I use insurance to get my blood tested?

Sometimes, you can use insurance to pay, or partially pay, for blood tests. It’s always best to check with your health insurance plan to see what you’re covered for, and if you’re responsible for copayments or deductibles.

How often should I get my blood tested?

The frequency with which you should get your blood tested is a question that you should pose to your primary care physician. For an otherwise healthy person, some bloodwork is usually recommended once per year as part of your general physical exam. But if you have a health condition that requires more frequent monitoring, you may have to get blood tests at different intervals, such as twice per year, four times per year, or every month.

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

Some blood tests require that you fast for a certain number of hours to get more accurate results, while for others, eating and drinking don’t have an impact. When going for a blood test, read and follow pre-testing instructions carefully, or call the lab or your health care provider if you’re unsure.

What does routine blood work check for?

Routine blood work typically checks key levels in your blood to determine if yours are within the normal range. Depending on the test, lower or higher than normal results could indicate a possible infection, a sign that a body system or organ isn’t performing as it should, or it can help rule out conditions to help with diagnosis. A complete blood count, for example, measures your red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and hemoglobin. A basic metabolic panel is another common test that measures blood glucose, calcium, and electrolyte levels.

Health Resources in Washington, D.C.

Learn more about health and how blood testing can help you manage your well-being. Numerous authoritative resources at the state and national levels provide valuable information about the most common health conditions, blood tests, and wellness.

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