Blood Testing in Nevada

There are many ways to get blood tests in Nevada, and it’s a good thing since it’s an important part of your health care regimen. Regular blood testing is a great way to monitor your health, keeping you and your health care professionals informed.

While Nevada residents rank below national death rates for cancer and diabetes, the state’s heart disease rates are a larger concern. For Nevada residents, there are 235.9 heart disease deaths per 100,000 residents, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Blood tests can reveal:

  • Conditions such as anemia, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease
  • General health status using tests such as complete blood count, urinalysis, and cholesterol level
  • Hormone imbalances and the presence of pregnancy hormones
  • Nutritional deficiencies, including vitamin B12 and vitamin D
  • Some sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as HIV, hepatitis, and syphilis

There are numerous Nevada blood testing resources where you can get testing and answers to your questions, sometimes for free or at a low cost. For example, Carson City Community Health Clinic uses an income-based fee schedule so no one is turned away for services.

Another is Nevada Health Centers, which offers routine laboratory tests, exams, and screenings. And at the Volunteers in Medicine of Southern Nevada, you can receive free lab testing, among other services, if you meet income qualifications.

Nevada Blood Testing Directory

To help you locate an accredited laboratory/testing center, a list of resources has been compiled and can be found below.

Consult with your health care provider about any lab testing that you may be considering. It is also important to follow up with your health care provider to discuss your results within the context of your medical history.

Health Statistics in Nevada

Nevada’s reported deaths for cancer and diabetes are under the national average, while heart disease and HIV death rates are above. Monitoring yourself through regular check-ups and blood testing can help improve your overall health. Reported deaths in Nevada include:

Nevada vs USA death rates

Source: CDC National Center for Health Statistics Mortality Dashboard

Common Blood Tests

Should you get a blood test? Learn about some of the most common blood tests and what they’re used for.

Blood Testing in Nevada:

Nevada Community Health Testing Centers

Community-based health testing organizations generate awareness and foster social change while providing access to testing and treatment.

If you’re concerned about visiting your regular doctor or can’t afford the cost of private testing, a community testing center may be able to help. While community testing centers may charge a fee for blood testing, it’s common to find free or low-cost testing from these resources:

Frequently Asked Questions About Blood Tests in Nevada

Can I order my own blood tests in Nevada?

Depending on the type of test, there are some kinds of routine blood tests that you can order in Nevada on your own.

Can I request a blood test without seeing a doctor?

Today, there is more direct access testing or direct-to-consumer testing available. That means that some blood tests can be done if you go visit a lab or order a test online, and you don’t need a doctor’s prescription.

How much does blood testing cost in Nevada?

Blood testing costs can range widely depending on the type of test, where it’s done, and your health insurance. Sometimes, blood tests may be free, such as if you visit a free clinic or are fully covered by insurance. Some specialized blood tests may cost you more out-of-pocket, however.

Can I use insurance to get my blood tested?

Health insurance will typically cover most blood tests, at least in part. If you have questions, contact your insurance provider to see if you have copayments or deductibles and what is covered.

How often should I get my blood tested?

This is a question for your primary care physician. If you do not have any chronic conditions, getting blood tests yearly should suffice. But if you are being monitored because of a specific illness or taking certain medications, you might have to go for more frequent tests to keep tabs on certain aspects of your health.

Can you eat or drink while fasting for a blood test?

It’s always best to follow specific instructions carefully or check with the lab or health care provider since some blood tests do require that you don’t eat or drink for a set amount of time before your test. For others, it may not be necessary.

What does routine blood work check for?

Routine blood work is a good way to gauge if your body is functioning normally. Lower or higher than normal results could confirm a diagnosis, indicate an infection, or rule out a possible disease. Some routine blood work includes counting red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and hemoglobin, while others measure blood glucose, calcium, and electrolyte levels.

Sources

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