What are a standard routine blood tests in Australia?

Overview

Blood tests are one of the most common diagnostic tools used by doctors in Australia. They help monitor overall health, detect diseases early, and guide management decisions. Whether it's part of a general check-up or to investigate specific symptoms, blood tests provide valuable insights into what's happening inside your body. So, what are the standard routine blood tests in Australia? How often should you get them? And what do they actually test for? Let's take a look. Australians are experiencing a notable increase in testing, with 438 pathology tests conducted for every 100 individuals in 2022–23, up from 366 tests per 100 a decade earlier. Here's why GPs advocate for regular blood tests and what you should know.

Routine blood tests in Australia

Routine blood tests are standard evaluations your GP may recommend to assess your body's health. They are quick, easy, and often bulk-billed*.

What are routine blood tests in Australia?

1. Full Blood Count (FBC)

• What it identifies: CBC test measures red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and haemoglobin levels.

• Why it’s needed: Helps detect infections, anaemia, clotting disorders, and certain blood-related conditions.

• When to test: If experiencing fatigue, frequent infections, unexplained bruising, or as part of a routine health check.

2. Lipid Profile

• What it identifies: Measures cholesterol levels, including total cholesterol, LDL (bad cholesterol), HDL (good cholesterol), and triglycerides.
• Why it's needed: Assesses the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions.
• When to test: As part of regular health screening, particularly for adults or those with cardiovascular risk factors.

3. Blood Glucose Test

• What it identifies: Measures blood sugar levels.
• Why it's needed: Helps diagnose and monitor diabetes or pre-diabetes.
• When to test: If experiencing symptoms such as increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, or during routine diabetes screening.

4. Liver Function Test (LFT)

• What it identifies: LFT testmeasures liver enzymes, proteins, and bilirubin levels.
• Why it's needed: Detects liver disease, fatty liver, hepatitis, and alcohol-related liver damage.
• When to test: If experiencing symptoms of liver disease or as part of routine health monitoring.

5. Kidney Function Test

• What it identifies:  Kindly function test measures markers such as creatinine, urea, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).
• Why it's needed: Assesses kidney function and helps detect kidney disease.
• When to test: If you have high blood pressure, kidney disease risk factors, or symptoms of kidney problems.

 

6. Thyroid Function Test

• What it identifies:  Thyroid function test Measures thyroid hormones, including TSH, T3, and T4.
• Why it's needed: Diagnoses thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.
• When to test: If experiencing symptoms such as unexplained weight changes, fatigue, or changes in heart rate.

7. Iron Studies

• What it identifies: Levels of iron, ferritin (iron storage), and transferrin (iron transport).
• Why it's needed: Diagnoses iron deficiency anaemia or iron overload conditions.
• When to test: If experiencing fatigue, dizziness, or unexplained weakness.

8. Vitamin D Test

• What it identifies: Measures vitamin D levels in the blood.
• Why it's needed: Important for bone health and immune function, particularly in those with limited sun exposure.
• When to test: If at risk of deficiency due to lifestyle, diet, or medical conditions.

9. C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Test

• What it identifies: Measures inflammation in the body.
• Why it's needed: Detects infection, autoimmune disorders, and chronic inflammatory conditions.
• When to test: If there are signs of infection or inflammation.

10. Electrolyte Panel

• What it identifies: Levels of key minerals such as sodium, potassium, and chloride.
• Why it's needed: Essential for assessing hydration, kidney function, and overall health.
• When to test: Often included in routine blood tests or if dehydration or kidney problems are suspected.

Additional routine blood tests

• HbA1c test: Tracks long-term blood sugar levels.
• PSA test: Evaluates prostate health.
• hCG test: Used primarily in pregnancy and certain health issues.
• Vitamin B12: Identifies deficiencies.

Why are routine blood tests important?

Routine blood tests are crucial for early disease detection, monitoring existing conditions, and assessing overall health. They help:

• Early detection: Identify health issues before symptoms appear, including diabetes, elevated cholesterol, and anaemia.
• Chronic condition management: Monitor diabetes, heart disease, and other ongoing health issues.
• Overall health assessment: Identify nutrient deficiencies and assess the functionality of your liver, kidneys, and other organs.
• Track the effectiveness of management and medications.
• Provide a baseline for long-term health monitoring.
• Detect risk factors for heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses.

Even if you feel healthy, regular blood tests can catch silent health conditions like high cholesterol or pre-diabetes before they become serious.

Specialist blood tests

Your GP may suggest additional tests beyond the basics if you exhibit symptoms, have risk factors, or a family history.

• Genetic testing: Looks for inherited conditions or genetic predispositions.
• CRP (C-reactive protein): Identifies inflammation.
• Troponin: Evaluates potential heart damage, often following chest pain.
• D-dimer: Screens for the presence of blood clots.
• BNP: Assists in diagnosing heart failure.

IMPORTANT: If you are experiencing chest pain, difficulty breathing, or sudden limb swelling, do not book a telehealth appointment. Call 000 or visit the nearest Emergency Department immediately.

Other non-routine blood and pathology tests

While routine blood tests cover many aspects of health, your doctor may order additional tests depending on your symptoms or medical history. These include:

• Hormone tests (e.g., oestrogen, cortisol)
• Coagulation studies (for blood clotting disorders)
• Autoimmune panels (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis markers)
• Genetic tests (for inherited conditions)
• Allergy and food sensitivity tests

How to get a blood test in Australia?

If it's your first time getting a test, here's what to anticipate:

1. See your GP – Your doctor will assess your health and order the necessary tests.
2. Referral: You will receive a request form for a pathology laboratory.
3. Visit a pathology collection centre – Blood tests are conducted at pathology labs. Most laboratories accept walk-ins, although some may require appointments.
4. Results and follow-up – Your doctor will review your results and discuss any necessary management or lifestyle changes.

Medicare covers most routine blood tests if they are medically necessary. However, some specialised tests may require an out-of-pocket fee.

What to expect at a pathology lab

If it's your first time undergoing a blood test, the experience can be a bit daunting. Here's a general overview of what to expect:

1. Check in at reception: Upon arrival, present your GP's referral form. Some labs also accept digital referrals, allowing you to display them on your smartphone.
2. Waiting for your turn: Many labs welcome walk-ins, though busier locations may have brief wait times. Scheduling a telehealth appointment allows you to skip the waiting room at a physical GP clinic to receive your referral. Please note that you will still need to visit a pathology collection centre in person for the blood draw.
3. Blood collection by a phlebotomist: A trained expert will sanitise your arm, insert a small needle, and draw a few vials of blood. This process typically takes just a couple of minutes and may cause mild discomfort.
4. Other samples, if necessary: Occasionally, your GP may request urine or swab tests alongside your blood draw. The staff will assist you through these procedures.
5. Post-care: You'll be instructed to apply pressure with a cotton pad or bandage to minimise bruising. You can resume your normal activities afterwards.
6. Results: Your samples will be dispatched to a lab for analysis. Normally, results are returned to your GP within 1–5 business days, depending on the type of test.

How long do routine blood test results take?

Test type	Turnaround time	Notes
Routine (FBC, BMP)	1–2 days	Most common checks
Hormone or genetic tests	3–7 days	May take longer
Urgent (heart attack, infections)	Hours	Results fast-tracked in emergencies

Side effects

Blood tests are generally very safe, but there can be a few minor complications:

• Slight bruising or discomfort at the site of the needle.
• Occasionally feeling faint or dizzy (rare).
• A minimal chance of infection (extremely rare).
• Blood accumulating under the skin (hematoma).

How Hola Health may be able to help

Hola Health is an Australian telehealth platform that connects you with registered doctors and nurse practitioners — from the comfort of your home, at a time that suits you. Depending on your situation, a Hola Health clinician may be able to help with:

• 24/7 General medical advice via telehealth doctor consult — talk through symptoms or health concerns with a registered doctor or medical practitioner
• Medical certificate online  — for work or personal leave, when clinically appropriate
• Referrals to specialists - or in-person services when needed
• Online prescriptions — at a clinician's discretion and where clinically suitable
• Pathology or imaging requests — when assessed as appropriate by your treating clinician
• Mental health Care Plan — Mental Health Treatment Plans (referral to your regular GP may be recommended for ongoing care)

Hola Health clinicians are AHPRA-registered Doctors and medical practitioners in Australia. They will always recommend an in-person consultation, specialist referral, or emergency care if that is in your best interest. Note: Telehealth is not suitable for all conditions. Hola Health does not replace your regular GP, specialist, or emergency services. If you are unsure whether telehealth is right for your situation, we recommend speaking with your usual healthcare provider. In emergencies, call 000.

Questions to ask your doctor

• Which blood tests do I need and why?
• How often should I have routine blood tests?
• What do my results mean for my health?
• Should I be concerned about any abnormal results?
• Do I need to fast before my test?

Where to get help?

• Your GP – The best place to start for routine blood tests.
• Pathology Clinics – Local pathology labs.

 

Conculsion

Routine blood tests play a key role in keeping you healthy. Whether it's a general check-up or investigating symptoms, these tests provide vital information that can guide your healthcare decisions. If you haven't had a blood test in a while, consider discussing it with your doctor—it's a simple step that can have a big impact on your long-term well-being. Routine blood assessments are one of the simplest ways to safeguard your health. They identify issues early, assist in managing chronic conditions, and provide reassurance. If it's time for a check-up, schedule a Hola Health telehealth consultation today and receive GP-approved referrals from the comfort of your home.