Thyroid tests

[SueHG]

Has anyone heard the excuse from a testing Lab that they wont test for T3 unless there is a referral from a rheumatologist ?

[shaws Administrator]

I think the statement was made as the request for T3 probably increases the cost,

[PurpleNails Administrator]

Who has told you this? Hospital doctor or GP? 

That’s not an excuse I’ve heard.

Rheumatologists are doctors who diagnose and manage chronic inflammatory conditions.    I would think endocrinologists might need to know FT3 levels once in a while - I would hope. 

How would the lab know what referrals you have in place? 

Does the lab cross check each requesting doctor with their specialism & what they are authorised to request? Sound ridiculous. 

I’ve heard certain labs machines are set up to only test FT4 & then FT3 if TSH & FT4 are out of range, perhaps only rheumatologists have the experts over rule it?