Lab test
Cardiac Health & Cholesterol
Below is a plain-language overview of the cardiac health & cholesterol. Cardiac Health & Cholesterol testing checks key blood fats and related markers that can offer a picture of heart health. It is a convenient lab panel you can order without insurance or a doctor's referral.
Lab requirements in Cardiac Health & Cholesterol
Here is what you need before ordering and completing the Cardiac Health & Cholesterol. 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 instructions can vary by lab and by the specific tests included, so follow the collection lab's instructions. Some labs may ask you to fast for several hours before the blood…
- 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
- Order your test before visiting a lab, then use the requisition form in your account.
- Print the requisition form, or fax it to the lab directly from your account.
- No scheduling is needed — visit the collection lab during its normal business hours.
- A blood and/or urine sample is collected; the visit usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Bring a government-issued photo ID in case the lab requests it.
- Results are posted to your secure account within 1–3 business days.
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 measures cholesterol and related blood markers that are commonly used to assess cardiovascular risk. It may include total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides, and sometimes additional markers like hs-CRP or Lp(a).
What it measures
- Total Cholesterol — the overall amount of cholesterol in your blood
- HDL Cholesterol — often called 'good' cholesterol, helps remove other cholesterol from the blood
- LDL Cholesterol — often called 'bad' cholesterol, can contribute to plaque buildup in arteries
- Triglycerides — a type of fat in the blood that can be affected by diet and other factors
- hs-CRP — a marker of inflammation that may be related to heart health
- Lp(a) — a genetic variant of LDL that can be a risk factor for heart disease
What the test involves
The test involves a standard blood draw from a vein in your arm, usually at a lab or collection site. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Why it is often ordered
A clinician may order this panel to screen for abnormal cholesterol levels or to monitor heart health over time. It is often part of a routine checkup or risk assessment for cardiovascular disease.
Preparation
Preparation instructions can vary by lab and by the specific tests included, so follow the collection lab's instructions. Some labs may ask you to fast for several hours before the blood draw.
How results are reported
Results are typically reported as numerical values for each marker, often with a reference range provided by the laboratory. Reference ranges can vary between laboratories, so your results should be interpreted in the context of the lab that performed the test.
Before you go
- Whether fasting is required before your blood draw
- Which specific markers are included in the panel
- How and when you will receive your results
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to fast for this test?
Fasting requirements depend on the specific tests included and the lab's protocol. Some labs may ask for a fast of several hours, while others may not require it. Follow the instructions provided by the collection lab.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually available within 1 to 3 business days after the sample is collected. However, turnaround times can vary by lab and by the specific tests ordered.
Can I order this test without a doctor's referral?
Yes, this test can typically be ordered directly by consumers without a doctor's referral or insurance. You simply choose the panel and visit a participating lab for the blood draw.
What do the results mean?
Results are reported as numbers for each marker, and the lab provides reference ranges that vary by laboratory. A healthcare professional can help you understand what your results may mean for your health.
Related
Related tests
Locations
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