Laboratory Services
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Santa Cruz Core now offers a comprehensive range of blood tests and lab services in our clinics. Your health and well-being are our top priorities, and this new addition to our facilities will make it even more convenient for you to access the care you deserve. We are conveniently partnered with Quest Diagnostics, who will handle the testing of the samples we collect.
Our blood lab seamlessly accommodates lab orders from LabCorp, as well as orders from any lab or primary care practitioner, ensuring comprehensive and flexible healthcare services for our patients. Walk-ins are welcome at our Watsonville clinic, but appointments are required at our Santa Cruz clinic and encouraged at both locations. Use the calendar to book an appointment with our talented and caring technicians today.
Book your CORE Lab appointment today!
Q: What is a blood test?
Q: Why are blood tests important?
Q: How is a blood test performed?
Q: Is fasting necessary before a blood test?
Q: How long does it take to get the results of a blood test?
Q: Are there any risks or side effects associated with blood tests?
Q: What are some common types of blood tests?
Q: What can a CBC reveal about my health?
Q: What information does a lipid profile provide?
Q: How can I prepare for a blood test?
Q: Can I request specific blood tests?
In the state of California, you may request blood tests for yourself. However, if you request blood testing for yourself you should be aware that insurance likely will not cover the costs of the tests you request. You can also discuss your concerns and symptoms with your healthcare provider, who will determine which blood tests are necessary based on your medical history and symptoms. This is the best way to ensure your tests are necessary, interpreted accurately, and covered by health insurance.
Q: What do abnormal blood test results mean?
Q: Can I receive a copy of my blood test results?
Q: How often should I get blood tests done?
Q: Are there any specific instructions after a blood test?
Santa Cruz Core Clinic is renowned for its commitment to comprehensive healthcare services, including blood testing. If you're scheduled for a blood draw at this clinic, you may be wondering what to expect during the process. Here's a step-by-step overview of what you can anticipate:
- Appointment and Preparation: Before your visit, you'll need to schedule an appointment with Santa Cruz Core Clinic. They may provide specific instructions for fasting or other preparations based on the type of blood test you require. It's important to follow these guidelines closely to ensure accurate results.
- Check-In and Registration: Upon arriving at the clinic, you'll go through a check-in process. You'll need to provide your identification and insurance information if applicable. The clinic staff will verify your appointment details and collect any necessary paperwork.
- Phlebotomy Procedure: Once you're registered, you'll be directed to the phlebotomy (blood draw) area. Highly trained phlebotomists will perform the blood draw. They will cleanse the area where the blood will be drawn (usually the arm), locate a suitable vein, and use a sterile needle and collection vial to withdraw the necessary blood samples. The process is relatively quick and typically causes minimal discomfort.
- Post-Blood Draw Care: After the blood draw, you may be asked to apply gentle pressure to the puncture site with a cotton ball or bandage to minimize bruising. It's essential to follow any post-procedure instructions provided by the clinic staff, such as avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for a short period.
- Sample Processing: Your blood samples will be labeled, securely stored, and sent to a certified laboratory for analysis. The specific tests ordered by your healthcare provider will determine the processing time and when you can expect to receive results.
- Results and Follow-Up: If you are a Santa Cruz Core patient, once the laboratory has processed your sample(s), a Santa Cruz Core representative will contact you to discuss the results. If you are only using Santa Cruz Core for lab services, your practitioner will contact you when your results are ready. Depending on the findings, your healthcare provider may recommend further tests or develop a treatment plan if necessary.
It's important to note that the experience at Santa Cruz Core Clinic may vary slightly depending on the type of blood test and individual circumstances. To ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date information, it's advisable to consult directly with the clinic and review their specific protocols for blood testing.
Sources:
Mayo Clinic. (2021). Blood tests. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/blood-tests/about/pac-203849431
WebMD. (2021). Blood tests. https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/blood-tests#1
Are you often feeling tired, weak, or irritable? Do you find yourself easily fatigued even after a good night's sleep? These symptoms could be indicative of an iron deficiency, a common but often overlooked health issue. Fortunately, a simple and effective way to assess your iron levels is through a blood test. Iron blood testing can provide valuable insights into your overall health and help you address iron-related concerns before they become more serious.
- Early Detection and Prevention: One of the primary benefits of iron blood testing is early detection. By assessing your iron levels, healthcare professionals can identify potential deficiencies or excesses before they lead to severe health problems. Iron deficiency anemia, for example, can cause fatigue, pale skin, and shortness of breath, but a blood test can catch these issues before they worsen.
- Tailored Treatment: Iron blood tests provide a clear picture of your iron status, allowing healthcare providers to prescribe personalized treatment plans. Whether you need dietary changes, supplements, or other interventions, knowing your iron levels enables precise and effective management of your health. This tailored approach ensures that you receive the appropriate care, minimizing side effects and maximizing benefits.
- Monitoring Chronic Conditions: Individuals with chronic diseases like chronic kidney disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or cancer often face iron-related complications. Regular iron blood testing is crucial for monitoring these conditions and ensuring timely intervention. By tracking iron levels over time, healthcare professionals can make informed adjustments to treatment plans, improving the patient's quality of life.
In conclusion, iron blood testing is a valuable tool for maintaining your overall health and well-being. It allows for early detection, personalized treatment, and ongoing monitoring of iron-related conditions. If you've been experiencing symptoms like fatigue, weakness, or irritability, don't hesitate to discuss iron blood testing with your healthcare provider. It's a simple and effective way to unlock the benefits of optimal iron levels and enjoy a healthier, more vibrant life.
Sources:
Mayo Clinic. (2020). Iron deficiency anemia. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/iron-deficiency-anemia/symptoms-causes/syc-20355034
National Institutes of Health. (2020). Iron. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iron-HealthProfessional/
American Society of Hematology. (2019). Iron-deficiency anemia. https://www.hematology.org/education/patients/anemia/iron-deficiency-anemia
Blood testing plays a crucial role in the diagnosis and management of genetic disorders, offering a non-invasive and relatively straightforward method for identifying underlying genetic abnormalities. Genetic disorders are conditions caused by alterations in an individual's DNA sequence, and they can result in a wide range of health issues. These disorders can be present from birth or develop later in life, making early diagnosis essential for effective treatment and intervention. This article explores the significance of blood testing in diagnosing genetic disorders and highlights the scientific advancements that have made it possible.
Genetic Biomarkers in Blood: Blood contains a wealth of information, including genetic biomarkers that can provide insight into an individual's genetic makeup. Blood tests can detect specific DNA mutations or variations associated with various genetic disorders. For example, testing for the presence of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes in blood samples can help identify individuals at risk for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndromes.
Newborn Screening: Blood testing is a cornerstone of newborn screening programs worldwide. Shortly after birth, a small blood sample is collected from a newborn's heel, and it is then analyzed for a variety of genetic disorders, including phenylketonuria (PKU), cystic fibrosis, and sickle cell disease. Early detection through these tests allows for prompt intervention and treatment, significantly improving long-term outcomes.
Carrier Screening: Blood tests can also be used to determine whether an individual carries a genetic mutation that may be passed on to their children. This is particularly important for couples planning to have children, as it can help identify the risk of having a child with a genetic disorder. For example, carrier screening for conditions like Tay-Sachs disease and thalassemia can provide valuable information for family planning decisions.
Monitoring and Management: In cases where genetic disorders are already diagnosed, blood tests can be used to monitor disease progression and assess treatment effectiveness. Regular blood testing can provide critical information to healthcare providers, helping them tailor treatment plans to the patient's specific needs.
Genomic Medicine Advances: Recent advances in genomics have expanded the capabilities of blood testing in diagnosing genetic disorders. Next-generation sequencing technologies enable comprehensive genetic analysis, allowing for the identification of a wide range of genetic mutations and variations associated with various disorders. These advancements have revolutionized the field of personalized medicine and led to more accurate diagnoses and targeted therapies.
In conclusion, blood testing is a fundamental tool in the diagnosis and management of genetic disorders. It allows for the detection of genetic biomarkers, early screening of newborns, carrier identification, and monitoring of disease progression. As genomics continues to advance, blood testing is poised to play an even more prominent role in the early detection and personalized treatment of genetic disorders, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
Sources:
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2017). Carrier screening for genetic conditions. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/carrier-screening-for-genetic-conditions
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Newborn screening: A spot of blood can save a life. https://www.cdc.gov/features/newborn-screening/index.html
National Human Genome Research Institute. (2021). What are genetic disorders? https://www.genome.gov/Genetic-Disorders
Mayo Clinic - Blood Tests: Mayo Clinic's website offers a comprehensive guide to various blood tests, their purposes, and what they can reveal about your health. Mayo Clinic Blood Tests
American Association for Clinical Chemistry (AACC) - Lab Tests Online: Lab Tests Online, created by the AACC, is a valuable resource that explains common blood tests, their interpretations, and why they are important for your health. AACC.org
WebMD - Understanding Blood Tests: WebMD provides an informative article on understanding different blood tests, their significance, and how they can aid in diagnosing and managing various health conditions. WebMD Blood Tests
National Institutes of Health (NIH) - Blood Tests: The NIH offers an overview of blood tests, their uses in research and clinical settings, and their role in promoting overall health. NIH Blood Tests
American Heart Association (AHA) - Cholesterol and Blood Pressure Testing: AHA provides information on cholesterol and blood pressure tests, their importance in cardiovascular health, and how they can help prevent heart disease. AHA Cholesterol and Blood Pressure Testing
Cleveland Clinic - Complete Blood Count (CBC): The Cleveland Clinic explains the significance of a Complete Blood Count (CBC) test, one of the most common blood tests, in assessing overall health and detecting various disorders. Cleveland Clinic CBC
American Diabetes Association - Blood Glucose Testing: Learn about blood glucose testing and its critical role in managing diabetes on the American Diabetes Association's website. ADA Blood Glucose Testing
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - HIV Testing: The CDC provides information on HIV testing, its importance in HIV prevention and care, and where to get tested. CDC HIV Testing
National Cancer Institute (NCI) - Cancer Screening: NCI offers resources on cancer screening tests, including blood tests, to detect cancer in its early stages and improve outcomes. NCI Cancer Screening
MedlinePlus - Blood Tests: MedlinePlus, a trusted source of health information from the National Library of Medicine, provides an extensive collection of articles and resources on various blood tests and their uses. MedlinePlus Blood Tests
These resources cover a wide range of blood tests and their health benefits, making them valuable references for individuals seeking information about their health and the role of blood testing in maintaining and improving it.
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Testimonials
Sarah T.
Getting my blood drawn at Santa Cruz Core lab was a breeze! The staff was incredibly friendly and efficient. It was a painless experience, and I was in and out in no time. I highly recommend their service.
David M.
As someone who usually dreads blood tests, I was pleasantly surprised by my experience at Santa Cruz Core lab. The process was easy, and the skilled technician made it painless. I'll definitely be coming back!
Jennifer D.
I've had my fair share of blood draws, and I can confidently say that Santa Cruz Core lab provides exceptional service. Their staff is professional and proficient, making the entire process quick and painless.
Michael J.
Santa Cruz Core lab offers top-notch service. I was impressed by how easy and painless it was to get my blood drawn. The friendly atmosphere and skilled professionals truly make a difference.
Emily C.
I recently had to get my blood drawn at Santa Cruz Core lab, and I couldn't be happier with the experience. It was so easy, and the staff was incredibly kind. I didn't feel a thing – truly painless!
Jason L.
I used to dread getting blood drawn, but not anymore thanks to Santa Cruz Core lab. Their service is fantastic – efficient, painless, and the team is exceptionally friendly. I highly recommend them.
Maria R.
With a busy schedule, convenience is essential. Santa Cruz Core lab provided the easiest and most painless blood draw I've ever experienced. The staff was so welcoming, and I felt at ease.
Laura M.
I prioritize my health, and that's why I choose Santa Cruz Core lab for my blood tests. The service is exceptional – quick, easy, and painless. It's a refreshing change from the usual hassle.
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