Lab test
Cholesterol & Lipid Test Panels
Cholesterol & Lipid Test Panels is a laboratory test you can request directly. A cholesterol and lipid panel measures fats in your blood to help assess heart health. It is a common blood test ordered by clinicians.
Lab requirements in Cholesterol & Lipid Test Panels
Here is what you need before ordering and completing the Cholesterol & Lipid Test Panels. 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, so follow the specific directions provided by the collection lab. Some labs may ask you to fast for several hours before the test, while others may not…
- 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
A cholesterol and lipid panel is a group of blood tests that measure different types of cholesterol and triglycerides. These measurements help estimate your risk for heart disease and other cardiovascular conditions.
What it measures
- Total cholesterol — the sum of all cholesterol in your blood
- LDL cholesterol — often called bad cholesterol, can contribute to plaque buildup
- HDL cholesterol — often called good cholesterol, helps remove cholesterol from arteries
- Triglycerides — a type of fat that can also affect heart health
- Non-HDL cholesterol — calculated as total cholesterol minus HDL, includes all bad cholesterol
What the test involves
The test requires a standard blood draw from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Why it is often ordered
A clinician may order this panel as part of a routine health check or to evaluate cardiovascular risk. It can also be used to monitor the effects of diet, lifestyle changes, or cholesterol-lowering medications.
Preparation
Preparation instructions can vary, so follow the specific directions provided by the collection lab. Some labs may ask you to fast for several hours before the test, while others may not require fasting.
How results are reported
Results are typically reported as numbers for each component, often with a reference range. Reference ranges can differ 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 the blood draw
- Any medications or supplements that might affect results
- How and when results will be shared with you
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to fast for a cholesterol and lipid panel?
Fasting requirements depend on the laboratory and the specific test ordered. Some labs prefer a fasting sample, while others accept non-fasting samples. Always follow the instructions given by your collection lab.
How often should I have a cholesterol test?
The frequency depends on your age, risk factors, and overall health. Many guidelines suggest checking every few years for adults at average risk. Your clinician can advise on the right schedule for you.
What do the results mean?
Results are reported as numbers for each component, such as total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides. Your clinician will interpret these numbers along with your other risk factors. Reference ranges vary by laboratory, so always use the range provided by the testing lab.
Can I eat or drink before the test?
If fasting is required, you may need to avoid food and drinks other than water for several hours before the blood draw. If fasting is not required, you can follow your normal routine. Check with the lab for specific instructions.
Related
Related tests
Locations
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