Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers.

Explore our most common questions about ordering, sample collection, results, and more - all in one place.

Introduction


Blue Horizon Blood Tests is a trusted UK-based service offering convenient private blood testing without the need for a GP referral. Established in 2009 and led by Medical Director Dr Graham Johnson, the service allows customers to order a wide range of blood tests online, including health checks for thyroid, hormones, nutrition, and more. Samples can be collected at home using finger-prick or Tasso kits, or via nationwide clinics and nurse visits. All samples are analysed by UKAS- and ISO-accredited labs, with results typically delivered securely by email within a few days. Optional GP commentary is available at no extra cost, and the service is known for its fast turnaround, reliable results, and excellent customer support.

Before You Order

Yes – we include one free with your order. No GP consultation is required unless indicated. For all 500+ tests we provide this service to ensure access.


Doctor’s comments add 2–3 business days as a qualified GP reviews your results. These insights are complimentary but not a full diagnostic analysis, and a few of your results may require GP follow-up.

Yes. Most blood tests can be ordered by individuals aged 16 and over. However, all paid phlebotomy services - including clinic visits, home nurse appointments, and external phlebotomy options - are strictly available to those aged 18 and over.

Ordering & Sample Collection

Placing an order is quick and easy. Simply browse our range of blood tests online, choose the test or profile that suits your needs, and follow the checkout process. You can select your preferred sample collection method - such as a home finger-prick kit, Tasso device, nurse visit, or clinic appointment during checkout. Once your order is confirmed, you'll receive a confirmation email with a link to a short patient details form - please ensure you complete this form, as it’s required to trigger the packing and dispatch of your test kit. Once submitted, your chosen sample collection kit will be prepared and posted promptly (if required), along with full instructions.

We offer several convenient options for sample collection to suit your needs:

  • Use a finger-prick kit or a Tasso+ device (a pain-free, push-button blood collection tool). Full instructions are included.
  • Book a blood draw at one of our partner clinics, such as Superdrug or Tuli locations (18+ only).
  • A qualified nurse can visit your home to collect your sample (available UK-wide, age 18+).
  • You can arrange your own phlebotomy and return the sample using the kit provided.

Your available options will be shown during checkout based on your chosen test and location.

Some blood tests do require fasting to ensure accurate results. If your chosen test or profile requires fasting, it will be clearly stated on the product page and in your order confirmation. In general, fasting means having no food or drink (except water) for 8–12 hours before your sample is taken. You can drink plain water to stay hydrated, which actually helps make blood collection easier. Always follow the specific instructions provided with your kit or appointment confirmation.

If you've selected a test that requires a vacutainer (standard venous blood collection), you have several options:

  • You can book an appointment at participating Superdrug or Tuli clinics across the UK (ages 18+).
  • A qualified nurse can visit your home to perform the draw (also 18+ only).
  • You may use an independent clinic or healthcare professional of your choice. We’ll provide all necessary equipment in your kit.

You’ll see eligible vacutainer collection options during checkout, based on your location and the test selected.

PLEASE NOTE: You cannot attend at a Spire Hospital or the Doctors Laboratory (TDL) for your blood draw using our kit as our postal service is dealt with by a completely separate laboratory network.

Results & Interpretation

Most test results are available within 1 to 3 working days after your sample arrives at the laboratory. Some specialised tests may take a little longer - if so, the expected turnaround time will be clearly shown on the test’s product page. You'll receive your results securely by email as a PDF, and if you’ve opted in for doctor’s comments, please allow an extra 2–3 working days for the GP to review and add their notes.

Every test listing clearly indicates either an estimated minimum turnaround time or an estimated timeframe. While most results are delivered within the specified window, occasional technical issues or re-tests might slightly impact delivery. These times are based on business days, excluding weekends and holidays. Of course, if you would like to check the status of your results, contact us directly via email or live chat. Our dedicated team will be more than happy to provide you with a real-time update. 

Yes, you will receive a secure PDF copy of your results by email as soon as they are ready. This document is easy to download, save, and print for your records or to share with your healthcare provider. If you opted in for doctor’s comments, these will be included in the same report. You won’t receive a printed copy by post unless specifically arranged.

When you opt-in to doctor’s comments, one of our UK-registered GPs will review your results and provide a short written summary to help you better understand your findings. This service is free of charge but adds approximately 2–3 working days to your result turnaround time.

If you opt-out, you’ll still receive your full laboratory report in PDF format, but it will not include any medical interpretation. This option is ideal if you prefer to review your results independently or with your own healthcare provider.

Please note that the doctor’s comments are provided as a complimentary overview and are intended solely as a general guide. As we do not hold your full medical history, we always advise patients to take their results to their local GP for full interpretation. This is especially important when tests are purchased privately, as individuals are responsible for ensuring they understand the results, either through further research or medical consultation.

If any of your results fall into a critical or potentially dangerous range, our team will take prompt action. A registered doctor will review the findings and, if necessary, we will attempt to contact you directly by email to ensure you are aware of the issue and can seek urgent medical attention. These cases are rare, but your safety is our top priority. Please make sure your contact details are accurate when placing your order.

Costs & Extra Fees

Yes, in some cases. The cost of your test does not always include the sample collection fee, especially for in-person blood draws. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Tasso Kits - additional fee of £15.
  • Home Nurse Visits - Available UK-wide for an additional fee of £55, shown during checkout (18+ only).
  • Clinic Appointments (e.g., Superdrug or Tuli) - Will include a separate phlebotomy fee of £30. Shown during checkout (18+ only).
  • Using Your Own Healthcare Provider - You may need to pay them separately for the blood draw.

You’ll see all available options and any applicable fees clearly listed during the ordering process.

We offer several flexible options for having your blood sample taken, depending on your preference and location:

  • A qualified nurse can visit your home to collect your sample. This service is available UK-wide for individuals aged 18+, and an additional fee applies. You can choose this during checkout if available in your area.
  • You can attend a participating clinic for a professional venous blood draw. Some clinics may charge a separate phlebotomy fee, which is either included at checkout.
  • You're welcome to use your own healthcare provider or phlebotomist to take your sample. We’ll supply the necessary tubes and forms, but any service fees must be arranged and paid directly with them.

Each option has its own costs, age restrictions, and availability, which will be clearly outlined during the ordering process.

Sample Integrity & Preparation

Yes. Because of the potential for interference with test results, samples should not be taken from patients taking BIOTIN in excess of 5 mg per day until at least 48 hours following the last biotin dose.

Biotin (vitamin B7), often found in hair, skin, and nail supplements, can interfere with certain blood test results, especially hormone and thyroid tests. To ensure accurate results, we recommend you stop taking biotin supplements at least 48 hours before your blood draw, unless instructed otherwise by a healthcare professional.

Always read the test-specific instructions provided in your kit, as some profiles may have different guidance.

Yes! Being well-hydrated before your blood draw can make the process easier and more comfortable. We recommend drinking a glass or two of water (250–500ml) about an hour before your appointment or home sample collection. Proper hydration helps your veins become more accessible and can improve the flow of blood, especially for finger-prick or Tasso+ kits.

Avoid sugary drinks, caffeine, or alcohol before your test - plain water is best.

Yes, some blood tests require specific handling or timing to ensure accuracy. These instructions will be clearly provided in your test kit and order confirmation, but here are general guidelines:

  • Post your sample the same day you collect it, ideally before the last postal collection.
  • Use a weekday (Monday–Wednesday)
    for sample collection and posting to avoid delays over weekends.
  • For certain hormone or time-sensitive tests, collect your sample at a specific time of day or on a certain day of your cycle - this will be clearly stated if relevant.

Always follow the enclosed instructions carefully. If you're unsure, contact our support team before collecting your sample.

Post-Results & Follow-up

Yes, in many cases it’s a good idea to share your results with your GP or healthcare provider, especially if:

  • Your results are abnormal, even slightly.
  • You have ongoing symptoms or a medical condition.
  • You’re unsure how to interpret the findings, even with doctor’s comments.
  • You need follow-up tests, diagnosis, or treatment.

While our optional GP commentary provides helpful guidance, it is not a substitute for a full medical consultation or diagnosis. Your GP can view your results in the context of your full medical history and offer personalised advice or referrals if needed.

If you need to retest, contact us and we’ll guide you through your options - this may include sending you a replacement kit, depending on the reason (e.g. insufficient sample, postal delays, etc.).

If you need to cancel your order, please let us know as soon as possible. Cancellations requested before your test kit is dispatched are eligible for a full refund. If your kit has already been sent, a partial refund may be possible once the unused kit is returned (subject to our returns policy).

To request a retest or cancellation, please email our support team with your order number and reason for the request.

Additional Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can cancel or reschedule your clinic or home nurse appointment, but please give us as much notice as possible:

  • 24–48 hours’ notice to avoid potential cancellation fees.
  • too close to the appointment time may incur charges, especially for home nurse visits, where third-party providers are involved.

To make changes, please contact our support team or the service you are using with your order number and preferred new date or cancellation request. We’ll confirm any changes and let you know if there are additional steps or fees involved.

If you miss your clinic or home nurse appointment, please contact us as soon as possible to reschedule. Some providers may charge a missed appointment fee, so timely communication helps avoid extra costs.

If you miss your postal pick-up for sending your sample, don’t worry - samples can usually be dropped off at your nearest post office or courier location the next day. Just make sure to post your sample as soon as possible to avoid delays.

If you have any concerns or need assistance, please contact our support team - we’re here to help!

Your test report will include reference ranges - these show the typical values expected for most healthy individuals. Results within the reference range are generally considered normal.

If a result falls outside the reference range, it’s marked as abnormal, but this doesn’t necessarily mean there’s a health problem. Many factors, including temporary illness, medications, or lifestyle, can affect results.

For help understanding your results, you can:

  • Review the optional doctor’s comments if you opted in, which explain what abnormal values might mean.
  • Discuss your results with your GP or healthcare provider, who can interpret them in the context of your overall health.

Remember, blood tests are just one part of a bigger health picture.

Absolutely! Once you receive your results as a secure PDF, you can easily download, save, and share them with any healthcare professional you choose, including specialists, dietitians, or therapists. Sharing your results can help provide a fuller picture of your health and support your care.

If you opted for doctor’s comments, these will be included in the same report to give additional context.

Most of our finger-prick blood tests are designed for individuals aged 16 and over. For children under 16, many tests are not available due to sample volume and accuracy requirements. Additionally, some tests require venous blood draws, which must be done by a healthcare professional.

If you need testing for a child under 16, we recommend consulting your GP or paediatric specialist for appropriate testing options OR we can refer patients to our Blood Tests London service at bloodtestslondon.com

Certain blood tests require special handling procedures, such as incubation, temperature control, or rapid processing, to ensure accurate and reliable results. These tests may involve sensitive components like antibodies, enzymes, or cells that can degrade or change if not handled correctly.

For example, some infectious disease or immune function tests require the sample to be incubated at a specific temperature shortly after collection. Others may need to be kept refrigerated or delivered to the lab quickly.

All necessary instructions for special handling will be clearly provided with your test kit and order confirmation to help you collect and send your sample properly.