Mid-Atlantic · Blood Type & Blood Disorders
Blood Type & Blood Disorders in Washington DC
This page explains the blood type & blood disorders, what it measures, and how to order it. Blood type and blood disorder tests help identify your blood group and screen for common blood conditions. These tests are often ordered for transfusion planning, pregnancy care, or evaluating symptoms like fatigue or unusual bleeding.
Lab requirements in Washington DC
Here is what you need before ordering and completing the Blood Type & Blood Disorders in DC. Review each item and confirm the details with the collection lab.
- Physician's order
- Included. A physician's order is required for lab testing and is provided for you by our partner's physicians — no referral from your own doctor is needed.
- Fasting
- Fasting is required for this test — follow the collection lab's instructions.
- Preparation
- Preparation depends on the specific tests included; some may require fasting or avoiding certain medications. Always follow the instructions provided by the collection lab.
- Sample & visit
- A blood and/or urine sample is collected; the visit usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Identification
- Bring the lab requisition form from your account. The collection lab may also ask for a government-issued photo ID.
- Turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Availability
- Our partner lab does not serve ND, RI, NY, NJ, MD or HI. Confirm availability for your location with the collection lab.
Before you go
- Preparation depends on the specific tests included.
- some may require fasting or avoiding certain medications. Always follow the instructions provided by the collection lab.
Requirements are summarized from our partner lab's published policies. Preparation and availability can change — confirm current instructions with the collection lab before your visit.
What this test is
This panel includes tests that determine your ABO and Rh blood type and may also assess for blood disorders such as anemia, clotting problems, or abnormal blood cell counts. It is not a single test but a group of tests that can be selected based on your needs.
What it measures
- ABO blood group — determines if you have type A, B, AB, or O blood
- Rh factor — indicates whether you are Rh-positive or Rh-negative
- Hemoglobin — reflects the oxygen-carrying capacity of your blood
- Hematocrit — measures the proportion of red blood cells in your blood
- Platelet count — assesses clotting ability and risk of bleeding
- White blood cell count — indicates immune system activity or potential infection
What the test involves
A standard blood draw from a vein in your arm is used to collect the sample. The sample is then analyzed in a laboratory to determine your blood type and evaluate blood cell characteristics.
Why it is often ordered
A clinician may order blood typing before a transfusion, during pregnancy, or before surgery. Blood disorder tests are often used to investigate symptoms like fatigue, weakness, easy bruising, or abnormal bleeding.
Preparation
Preparation depends on the specific tests included; some may require fasting or avoiding certain medications. Always follow the instructions provided by the collection lab.
How results are reported
Results are typically reported as your blood type (e.g., A positive) and numerical values for blood cell counts or other markers. Reference ranges vary by laboratory and are provided with your report.
Before you go
- Whether fasting or other preparation is needed for your specific tests
- If a doctor's referral or insurance information is required
- The expected turnaround time for results
Cities
Blood Type & Blood Disorders in Washington DC communities
Choose your city for local context and to order this test.