Your guide to visiting a Med-Health Lab

Preparing for your visit

A visit to a Med-Health collection centre is straightforward. Most patients are in and out in under 15 minutes. Here is what to expect before you arrive.

You may walk in at any collection centre during operating hours — no appointment is required. Booking ahead is optional but can reduce wait times at busier locations, particularly on Monday mornings and before statutory holidays.

What to bring

To process your visit efficiently, please bring the following:

• Your requisition form — signed by your physician, nurse practitioner, or specialist.
• Ontario health card (OHIP) — for OHIP-covered tests. Bring the green card or a valid red-and-white card.
• Photo identification — driver's licence, passport, or other government-issued ID.
• Insurance card — if billing a private insurance plan, bring your card and policy number.
• List of current medications — some tests may be affected by medications. Inform the phlebotomist on arrival.

If you have lost or forgotten your requisition, contact your physician's office for a fax or digital copy. We cannot perform tests without a valid requisition, except for specific walk-in panels.

Fasting requirements

Whether you need to fast depends on the specific tests on your requisition. Your physician will typically indicate fasting requirements on the form itself.

When fasting: water is always permitted and encouraged. Take essential prescription medications as normal unless your physician has instructed otherwise. Do not smoke or exercise vigorously before a fasting test.

During your visit

On arrival, check in at the reception desk and present your health card, photo ID, and requisition. You will be called by a phlebotomist within a short wait time.

Blood collection typically takes under five minutes. The phlebotomist will apply a small bandage after the draw; keep it on for at least 15 minutes. If you experience dizziness or faintness, inform the phlebotomist immediately — we have a rest area available.

For ECG testing: a technician will attach 10 electrodes to your chest, arms, and legs. The test takes approximately five minutes and is completely painless. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.

For urine collection: collection containers and instructions are available at the front desk. A private washroom is available at every location.

Your results

Lab results are sent directly to your ordering physician, typically within 24–48 hours for routine tests. Specialty panels may take 3–7 business days depending on the referral laboratory.

You can also access your results through our secure online patient portal:

If you have concerns about your results, contact your physician. Lab staff are not able to interpret results or provide medical advice.

Billing & insurance

Most routine blood tests ordered by an Ontario physician are covered by OHIP — you will not be charged for these tests if you have a valid health card. However, certain specialty tests, wellness panels, and tests ordered for non-OHIP reasons are not covered and will be billed directly to you or your insurer.

We accept direct billing from most major private insurance providers. Bring your insurance card and policy information. We also accept Visa, Mastercard, and Interac debit for self-pay amounts.

Accessibility

All Med-Health collection centres are accessible. Every location has:

• Step-free or ramp entry
• Accessible washrooms
• Seating in the waiting area
• Staff trained to assist patients with mobility or sensory needs

If you require specific accommodation — such as assistance with paperwork, an interpreter, or a private collection room — please contact the location in advance.