Which blood test is right for me?

‍

When you order a blood test with Ted’s Health, you’ll be given the option to select a finger-prick blood test (which you can complete yourself at home) or to have your blood taken by a medical professional from your vein (a venous blood draw). Venous blood draws can take place at your home or in a clinic or pharmacy close to where you live. 

‍

Both are effective ways to test your blood. Below, we’ve covered the pros and cons of each type to help you make the decision. If you’d like to talk it over with us, we’re happy to help – just email support@tedshealth.com. 

‍

How each type of blood test works with Ted’s Health

A finger-prick blood test:

1. Your finger-prick test will be sent directly to your house with instructions on how to complete the test. 
2. Using the kit, you prick your finger and fill up a small vial with your blood. Allow around 30 minutes to complete the whole process. 
3. Then, simply send your sample back to us using the pre-paid returns label. 

A venous blood draw: 

1. We’ll send you a link to either book a time for a medical professional to come to your house, or to visit a participating clinic or pharmacy. There is an additional cost of £35 (in clinic/pharmacy) or £70 (at home) for this service. 
2. During your appointment, the medical professional will draw blood from your vein (usually on your arm) with a needle and syringe. Appointments are typically 15-30 minutes. 
3. The clinic, pharmacy, or visiting professional will return the blood to us for testing. 

‍

Pros and cons of each blood test type

A finger-prick blood test

Pros:

‍

• You can complete this type of test yourself at home, meaning the whole process takes less time out of your day and is more flexible and convenient.
• A smaller amount of blood is needed (which is preferable for older people and those with certain medical conditions, in particular).
• For patients with a needle phobia, this testing method may be more comfortable.
• There’s no additional cost. 

‍

Cons: 

‍

• Squeamish patients may find it difficult to take their own blood sample. 
• Some patients may struggle to obtain enough blood through a finger-prick test (drinking plenty of water beforehand can help with this).
• The results may not be quite as accurate as the venous blood draw, and there is a greater chance of the blood sample being unusable (although this is still unlikely).

A venous blood draw: 

‍Pros:

‍

• It’s the ‘gold standard’ of blood testing; more accurate, and less likely to fail for any reason.
• If speed is your priority, a venous draw could be a better option than an at-home test.
• Everything is handled for you, which may appeal to patients who don’t like the sight of their own blood.

‍

Cons:

‍

• A larger amount of blood is taken, which can be a negative for some people. 
• There’s an additional cost for this type of testing because it involves the time of another person. 

Don’t wait to get answers about your health 

Your blood is like your health blueprint, and your test will give us a comprehensive picture of your health, from your testosterone levels to your prostate health, cholesterol levels, liver function, and more. Take your health into your own hands and order a test today.

‍