Blood Testing at Arcturus Clinic

What do I need to do to prepare for a blood test? 

• It is best to fast before any blood test so that various parameters e.g.: Cholesterol levels, blood sugar levels are more actuate and representative. Basically this means it is OK to eat dinner the night before but it is recommended to skip breakfast on the morning of the test and just drink hot water.
• It is best to have an early morning sample taken which will give you more actuate and representative levels of for example Cortisol – so ideally before 10am. 
• It also important NOT to take any supplements or medication before the test. Please do bring key medication with you so that you can take it straight after the blood draw - if it is necessary to take your morning dose of medication. 
• It is also important to be well hydrated before your blood draw so please drink at least a pint of warm/hot water and take a pinch of salt to optimise your blood volume to support the ease of the blood draw. 

What Blood Tests Are Available? 

Arcturus Clinic offers access to a range of private blood tests, which may include: 

• General health and wellbeing panels – Male and Female Comprehensive panels. 
• Hormone testing. (Full spectrum analysis) 
• Nutritional precursors, Key mineral and vitamin levels. 
• Thyroid function testing.  (X2 Autoantibodies TSH T4 and T3.) 
• Inflammatory and metabolic markers – analysis of metabolic syndrome. 

The specific tests available depend on individual needs and practitioner recommendations. 

Who Are Blood Tests For? 

Blood testing may be suitable for adults who: 

• Want a clearer picture of their health 
• Are experiencing ongoing or unexplained symptoms 
• Wish to monitor existing health concerns 
• Are working with a practitioner to support wellbeing or lifestyle changes 

Suitability is discussed before testing. 

TO SEE AN EXAMPLE REPORT CLICK HERE

Do I Need a Consultation First? 

Yes. A consultation is ideally required before blood testing to: 

• Discuss your health concerns and goals and so that Dr Hopwood can take a full holistic medical history.
• Determine which tests are appropriate 
• Explain the testing process and next steps 

This ensures that testing is relevant, appropriate, and clearly understood. 

How Is the Blood Sample Taken? 

Blood samples are usually taken: 

• Via a simple venous blood draw 
• By a trained certified Phlebotomist – a qualified healthcare professional 
• In a clean, clinical setting.  
• The smallest appropriate butterfly needle is used to reduce discomfort and assure efficacy with smaller veins. 

Most blood tests require fasting or specific prior preparations, including optimising hydration and abstaining from usual supplementation. If you have a history of needle phobia or fainting it is a good idea to get a friend to drive you home or leave extra time to gather yourself after the blood draw.

How Long Does It Take to Get Results? 

Results times vary depending on the test but are typically available within: 

• A few days to one week – usually one week. 

Once results are received, they are reviewed and discussed during a follow-up consultation. 

Will Someone Explain My Results? 

Yes. Test results are not simply sent without some basic explanation but an integrative consultation with Dr Hopwood will reveal the extent of information that can be yielded from the blood test results. 

Dr Hopwood will: 

• Review the results with you 
• Explain what the findings may indicate 
• Discuss appropriate next steps or referrals 
• Answer any questions you may have 

Results are used to support informed clinical decision-making. 

Is Blood Testing a Medical Diagnosis? 

Blood testing at Arcturus Clinic: 

• Is not intended to replace GP or hospital care 
• Does not constitute a medical diagnosis on its own. 
• Blood test information is analysed within the context of a functional holistic medicine perspective. 
• Where appropriate, results may be shared with your GP or other healthcare providers, but only with your consent. 
• Lab: Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. This is the laboratory at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital (RD&E) which is one of the most highly regarded laboratories in Devon and most likely the same Lab as your GP will use locally. 

Can Blood Testing Be Used Alongside Other Therapies? 

Yes. Blood testing is often used alongside: 

• Functional or integrative medicine 
• Nutritional therapy - Dietary optimisation
• Lifestyle or wellbeing support 
• Holistic Medical consultations 
• Acupuncture

This allows for a more comprehensive integrative view of your health. 

How Do I Book a Blood Test? 

Blood testing appointments can be booked: 

• Via the clinic booking system