Information for Patients

FAQ

Question:  Will I have to pay for this testing?

Answer:

Most routine tests are covered by Medicare.  Pathology South offers bulk billing to all Medicare card holders for Medicare rebatable tests, meaning you will have no out-of-pocket expenses in most cases.

Pathology South staff, or your doctor, can advise you as to which tests are not Medicare rebatable.

Question:   Do I need an appointment?

Answer:

For most routine tests no appointment is required, if however you are pregnant and require a Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT) please contact us to make an appointment.

Question:  Do you do paediatric collections?

Answer:

Pathology South is now offering a paediatric outpatient service at the Wellington Clinics. Children aged 3 and above can attend the Wellington Clinic, Level 2, by appointment on 6166 0150, weekdays, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm. A request form is required from either a specialist or a GP.

 

Question:   My request is not on a Pathology South form, can you still perform the testing?

 Answer:

Yes, we can accept all pathology request forms.  Your doctor may request you use a particular pathology provider based on clinical grounds and this will be indicated on the form if this is the case.

Question:  I collected the sample at home, where do I have to take it?

Answer:

For samples collected at home, such as urine, these can be dropped off at any Pathology South collection centre (Hobart, Rosny, Glenorchy or Kingston).

Question:  How do I find out more about the tests my doctor has requested?

Answer:

If you would like to know more about the tests you doctor has requested, for more detailed information please visit Pathology Tests Explained.

Question: What should I do if I feel unwell following the collection of specimens?

Answer:

In the event you feel unwell following specimen collection please contact Pathology South on 6166 0150, or your doctor.

Question: What happens to my samples once testing has been completed?

Answer:

Most samples are retained for up to 7 days following completion of testing, after which they are disposed of using standard procedures for medical waste.

Some tissue samples are retained for longer periods in case follow up testing is required, as per national requirements.

Some samples are referred to other laboratories for more complex testing. All such samples are sent to NATA accredited laboratories only, which operate under the same requirements.

Question: When will my test results be available?

Answer:

Your doctor is aware of the time required to complete your Pathology testing and will schedule your next appointment accordingly.

Results of most routine tests are available within a few hours.