We run regular phlebotomy clinics at the practice for patients who require blood tests as part of their NHS care.
Blood tests can only be carried out when requested by a clinician.
Requesting a Blood Test
Blood tests must be:
- Requested by a GP or other NHS clinician
- Clearly recorded in your medical notes or provided with a valid request form
We are unable to take blood without a clinician’s request.
Hospital Blood Test Requests
If your blood test has been requested by a hospital consultant or specialist, you have the following options:
At the practice: Hospital-requested blood tests can be carried out at the practice if you bring a valid hospital request form and the correct blood bottle labels. Without these, we will not be able to take your blood sample.
Alternatively, you may choose to attend the blood test clinic at Royal Devon and Exeter (RDE) Hospital or another community site. The hospital or community clinic may be more appropriate for certain tests or patient needs.
If you decide to attend RDE Exeter or a community clinic:
- Follow the instructions provided by the hospital or clinic team
- Check appointment times and arrangements directly with them
If you are unsure which option is most suitable for your test, please contact the practice before booking.
Preparing for Your Blood Test – Fasting Blood Tests
Some blood tests require you to fast beforehand.
If you have been asked to fast:
- Do not eat or drink anything except plain water for 10–12 hours before your test
- You may drink water as normal
- Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before the test, if possible
- Continue to take your usual medications unless you have been advised otherwise
If you are unsure whether your test requires fasting, please check with the practice before your appointment.
Preparing for You Blood Test – Regular (Non-Fasting)
For most routine blood tests:
- You can eat and drink as normal
- Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before the test, if possible
- Drink plenty of water before your appointment to help with blood flow
- Wear loose or short-sleeved clothing
- Continue your usual medications unless advised otherwise
Children’s Blood Tests
Blood tests for children are offered based on the child’s age and clinical needs.
Depending on the age of your child, and the type of blood test required, your child may be referred to the paediatric team for their blood test instead of having it done at the practice. This helps ensure the test is carried out in the most appropriate and supportive setting.
If a referral is needed:
- The clinician requesting the blood test will arrange this
- You will be advised where and how the blood test will be carried out
- The paediatric team is experienced in supporting children through blood tests
What We Do Not Offer
Please note that our phlebotomy service is commissioned only for NHS testing. We are unable to provide private services.
Specifically:
- We do not offer private blood tests
- We do not take blood for private companies
- We do not interpret or comment on private blood test results
If you have arranged private tests, please contact the provider directly for advice, results, or interpretation.
Patient Samples
All patient samples must be requested by a clinician. We are unable to accept samples that are simply handed in without a valid request.
Please note: not all conditions require a sample. Blood or other tests will only be requested where clinically appropriate.
To ensure the integrity of the sample and the most accurate results:
- Samples must be fresh and submitted on the same day they are collected
- Samples should be dropped off before 12:30pm wherever possible so they can be sent with the courier the same day
- Samples must be provided in an appropriate sterile container
- The practice may be able to supply suitable containers
- Alternatively, containers can be purchased from your local pharmacy
- Samples in non-sterile containers will not be accepted
Please contact the practice if you are unsure about whether a sample is needed or how to submit it.
Booking an Appointment
To book or rearrange a Blood Test:
- Contact the practice by phone, online or visit us when we are open
- Respond to appointment invitations sent by the practice
