How to get an NHS blood test 2026: referral, booking, results

A blood test is one of the most common procedures in the NHS. You cannot simply book one on a whim: the referral comes from a doctor, nurse or specialist, who also decide which test you need. On the NHS the procedure is free.

How do you book a test?

First, a GP, nurse or hospital specialist must order the test and explain how to book it. Some surgeries and hospitals offer online booking, others take bookings by phone or on a walk-in basis. Blood is usually taken at the surgery or hospital, in a blood-taking (phlebotomy) room.

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What happens during the procedure?

The procedure itself takes about 10 minutes. Blood is most often taken from a vein on the inside of the elbow, sometimes from the wrist or by a finger-prick. A tourniquet may be put on first. Some tests need preparation: you may be asked to eat nothing beforehand (only water allowed) or to pause certain medicines, such as anticoagulants. Your clinician will tell you in advance whether you need to prepare.

When and how do you get the results?

Results are usually ready within a few days, sometimes up to a few weeks. They are normally discussed with you by a doctor, nurse or specialist. Some surgeries only contact you if there is something to discuss. You can often view results yourself — in the NHS App or your online account on the NHS website. If a few weeks pass and you have heard nothing, contact the surgery or specialist yourself.

What if you are afraid of needles?

Tell the staff — they will help, and you can bring someone with you. If a result is unclear, ask for it to be explained: going through the figures is part of the appointment. Keep access to the NHS App: through it you can not only see your tests but also order repeat prescriptions and book appointments.

Where else can you go, and what about private tests?

Besides your GP surgery and hospital, some areas run community phlebotomy clinics you book through the referral. If a test is urgent, your clinician will tell you where to go; in an emergency the hospital arranges it. NHS tests stay free. Private blood tests also exist, but their results are not added to your NHS record automatically — share them with your GP if they matter. Children may be given a numbing cream, and staff can take extra time. Keep a note of which tests you have had and when, so repeat tests are not done unnecessarily.

More about the procedure is on the NHS website.