We have online system for booking routine blood tests. See below for the details.
Why have you moved to an online system for booking blood tests?
All blood testing services in North East London are moving or have moved to online queuing systems. This was in the pipeline before the pandemic. But we were able to accelerate this to implement the system sooner to keep people safe. The online booking system means patients book in advance and just come when it is their appointment time.
No waiting rooms
We are keen that vulnerable patients are not exposed to the risk of infection through contact with others in a waiting room. (This was especially true during the Pandemic.) We have no plans to have waiting rooms back. It is more efficient for people to book in advance, and come in when it is the right time for their appointment.
How can I book a blood test?
You can use the QR code on the left to access the Swiftqueue link or click on your computer or phone: https://www.swiftqueue.co.uk/elft.php
We have distributed posters to all GP surgeries which explain how to book your blood test. You can ask the GP or the GP receptionist to book it while you are there. If you routinely attend for blood tests, we can assist you at the clinic with future bookings if you do not have the facility to book the appointment.
Your doctor must print out a blood test request form
You MUST have the blood test request form from your doctor or nurse stating what type of blood tests they want you to have. We are unable to perform your blood test without this blood form. Swiftqueue only makes the appointment time. It doesn't say what type of blood test you need to have.
So I can't just walk-in for a blood test with my form?
No, we now have people booked in advance - so we have no space to see anyone without an appointment
What if my GP says I need a blood test urgently?
Your GP must ensure they use a form that states this. We have a small number of protected slots for this situation across all four blood test sites. These take place from 07.00-12.00. We have limited capacity and will prioritise urgent requests. Ideally, you can book a slot on the Swiftqueue system where the average wait is only five days.
What if I or the person who needs the blood test doesn't have a computer, wifi or has no experience of using online systems like this?
If you or they have been given a blood test form, they can ask someone to book the appointment for them. Or the GP, nurse or receptionist can do this for you. If you routinely attend for blood tests we can assist you with future bookings at the clinic - if you do not have the facility to book the appointment yourself.
Those unable to book using the online service, you can call a helpdesk hotline: 020 8475 2199 and press option 2
Telephone lines are open from 9am to 3pm Monday to Friday.
What if I or the person who needs the blood test doesn't understand English very well or uses a second language?
The online system has a range of languages that can be used. Or they can ask the receptionist or health professional requesting the blood test to book it while you are present
If I just come and wait, will I be able to have my blood test done?
No. The service is strictly an appointment-only system. This is a very busy service and every appointment slot is used each day. So you need to book an appointment slot and just come at the time of your appointment.
Some patients have come without an appointment and been upset and angry to have not had their blood test. But we have to see the people who have made an appointment. So avoid upset, disappointment and frustration by simply booking online. It will be the quickest smoothest approach.
How long will I have to wait on average to get an appointment slot for my blood test?
If your GP has requested a routine blood test for you, please anticipate that this is likely to involve a minimum of one week wait time.
September 2022