Lab Rechecks/Follow-ups

Lab follow-ups for those on cholesterol, blood pressure or diabetic medicines all require fasting blood work.  You should fast six to eight hours before your visit.  This is relatively easy for early morning appointments, but we understand it can be difficult for afternoon appointments.  Remember that it is not necessary to avoid eating ALL DAY before your appointment, just six to eight hours out.  A good breakfast finished by around 7:00 am is OK if your appointment is after 2:00 pm.  During your fasting you may have water only; and you are encouraged to drink plenty of water. You should also avoid mints, gum and any tobacco products. 

In some instances, it is also appropriate to come in early in the morning to draw your blood, and come back later for your scheduled appointment.  Please call if this is something you would like to do to see if it can be arranged.

Do take all you medicines as normal before your appointments, except for diabetic medicines.  Those do not take but do bring them with you to the visit. 

Other follow-up visits or rechecks may have unique pre-visit instructions.  Please call our office if you are not sure.