A blood test is when a sample of blood is taken for testing in a laboratory. Blood tests have a wide range of uses and are one of the most common types of medical test. For example, a blood test can be used to:
- assess your general state of health
- confirm the presence of a bacterial or viral infection
- see how well certain organs, such as the liver and kidneys, are functioning
A blood test usually involves the phlebotomist taking a blood sample from a blood vessel in your arm and the usual place for a sample is the inside of the elbow or wrist, where the veins are relatively close to the surface. Blood samples from children are most commonly taken from the back of the hand. The child’s hand will be anaesthetised (numbed) with a special cream before the sample is taken.
If you have been asked to have a blood test by one of our healthcare professionals, please ensure you know whether this is a Royal Free Hospital blood test, or a University College London Hospital blood test.
University College London Hospital Blood Test
This is either at the Kentish Town Health Centre, (where the James Wigg Practice is located at 2 Bartholomew Road, NW5 2BX) or at the other available health centre’s.
Book your blood test appointment here.
If you are unable to book online, you can contact the service on 0203 447 9051 (between 09:00 and 17:00 weekdays) or emailing them at [email protected].
You can read more about the UCLH Blood Testing Service and how to book an appointment on this UCLH page.
Please only book a blood test if you have been asked to do so by a clinician at the practice.
Royal Free Hospital Blood Test
This is at the Royal Free Hospital (Pond Street NW3 2QG).
Book your blood test appointment here.
You can also call them to book your appointment on 0207 443 9757. The phone line is open Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm.
