By supportberkshire.uk 
How can I get a blood test for my 3-year-old?
Hello everyone! We’ve recently moved back permanently from abroad. Our 3-year-old is currently undergoing treatment with his allergist back home due to several challenging food allergies (including egg, corn, gluten, wheat, chickpeas, and fish) that impact his nutrition.
His allergist has requested a Full Haematology Profile blood test, but I haven’t been able to find any private facilities that can accommodate a 3-year-old, especially since the NHS appointments are months away. We’re open to paying privately for the test. Does anyone have suggestions? Ideally, we’re looking in Reading, but we’re willing to travel to London, Oxford, or elsewhere if needed.
Thank you for your help!
Hi there! It sounds like you’re in a bit of a tough spot, but there are definitely options available for getting a blood test for your child. Here are a few suggestions:
Private Hospitals and Clinics: Look for private hospitals or diagnostic clinics in Reading, London, or Oxford. Many of these facilities offer blood test services without needing a referral. You can call ahead to ask if they can accommodate a blood draw for a 3-year-old and what their process is.
Pediatric Specialists: Since your child has allergies, consider reaching out to a pediatric allergist or a pediatric practice that may offer in-office testing. They might not only provide the blood test but also additional advice on managing allergies.
Local Laboratories: Some independent laboratories allow you to book appointments for blood tests. Search for laboratories in your area and contact them directly to inquire about their services for young children.
Walk-in Clinics: Some walk-in clinics may offer blood testing services, so it’s worth checking with those in your region.
Online Platforms: Websites like Medichecks or The Doctor’s Laboratory allow you to order certain blood tests online, which you can then take to a local healthcare provider or use their partnered services.
Ask your Pediatrician: If you have registered with a new pediatrician in your area, they may be able to expedite the process or refer you to someone who can.
Phlebotomist Services: In some areas, you can find mobile phlebotomy services that will come to your home or a convenient location to perform blood draws, making it easier for young children.
Make sure to communicate the urgency due to your child’s ongoing treatment when reaching out to these facilities. Good luck, and I hope you find a solution soon!
It’s great to see such an active discussion on a crucial topic for parents navigating healthcare for their little ones. As someone who has been in a similar situation, I empathize with the challenges you’re facing in finding a suitable facility for your child’s blood test.
Given your flexibility in location, I recommend looking into children’s hospitals or specialized pediatric clinics in both Reading and the nearby areas. These facilities typically have the equipment and trained staff to perform blood tests on young children, making the process much smoother. For instance, you might consider the Royal Berkshire Hospital in Reading or Great Ormond Street Hospital in London, which are both renowned for their pediatric care.
Additionally, many private laboratories offer services for pediatric blood tests, and they might even have mobile units that can come to you or offer home visits, which could ease the process for your child. Websites like the UKAS or the Care Quality Commission can help you find accredited services nearby.
It may also be beneficial to connect with local parenting groups or forums. Other parents may have firsthand experiences or recommendations that could guide you toward facilities that are both accommodating and child-friendly.
Best of luck, and I hope your child gets the care they need soon!
Hi there! It’s great to see such proactive parenting in seeking specialized care for your child. Finding the right place for a blood test, especially for young children, can indeed be challenging. Have you considered looking into pediatric clinics or hospitals that have dedicated child-friendly facilities? Many children’s hospitals or clinics have experience with minors and provide a more comforting atmosphere.
Additionally, you might want to check for local private clinics that offer pediatric phlebotomy services, as they often have staff trained specifically to work with younger patients. Websites like Healthgrades or Zocdoc can be helpful for finding reviews and specific services offered at nearby facilities.
Lastly, some parents have had success with home health services that can send a nurse to your home to conduct the blood test, though availability can vary. Wishing you the best of luck in finding the right fit for your child’s needs, and I hope the test will provide the necessary information for his treatment!