Private Thyroid Blood Tests... Blue Horizon or Medichecks?

[Gilbo72]

Any preference?

Is the self pin prick ok? I’m not squeamish, but is it sufficient?

Many thanks

[virrpanna]

Hello! I did Medichecks and it was great! I meant to do a prick test but I just couldn’t get myself to do it 😆 I then called them and for an extra charge I had a nurse taking my blood sample for me. Really efficient. Will use again. I didn’t notice it, but they have an offer of £10 off your first blood test!

[shaws Administrator]

There's no preference and yes they are pin-prick tests but the labs can make an arrangement if you want blood drawn. They are also accurate.

Make sure you are well-hydrated a couple of days before blood draw which should be at the earliest and don't take levothyroxine until after the blood draw. Arms/hands should be warm.

Others who've done the same test will respond if they have some more tips.

[Treepie]

I managed once but not again so go to BMI hospital.

[Sallybones]

have used Medichecks twice recently and received very good service, quick turnaround and easy to understand results and written report. They even reprinted the results for me in larger print as I have eyesight problems. Had blood drawn at my local hospital for an extra charge as it had to be from my arm. Also took advantage of their money off offers which they have regularly and was what I needed at the time. Haven't used Blue Horizon yet but wouldn't hesitate to do so as others have written good posts about them.

Fingerprick tests are not hard to do but bit fiddly if your hands are not so nimble!!

Hope that helps.

[suebob59]

I'd go for the blood draw personally, rather then the finger prick test.

Many of us, myself included can't get the blood to flow for long enough when pricking before it starts clotting to fill the very small tube.

[Rainbownut]

I had trouble with my first finger prick test from Medichecks, as I just couldn’t get enough blood. I spent ages massaging my finger & apparently broke the blood cells.

With the free second test, they sent better instructions. I went in the side of my finger & also tied a scarf round the top of my arm & filled the pots easily!

[Musicmonkey]

Like Rainbow nut I had problems with the finger prick test. I don't give blood easily and I had to ask Blue Horizon for the full blood draw kit and managed to get my GP Nurse to do it.

[Hidden]

It depends on which test you order. For the more expansive tests it's probably best to have the blood taken at the hospital.

I only do a test once every year so I use the hospital that they recommend. It's quick and easy but more expensive.

[Hidden]

I forgot to say, take the test first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. If you are taking Levo leave off for 20/24 hours prior to the test. If on NDT or T3 only leave off 10/12 hours before the test.