Laboratory Services

Does the Student Health Center offer on-site laboratory testing?

Yes, we offer on-site lab tests such as:

• Rapid throat cultures
• Rapid mono tests
• Urinalysis
• Urine pregnancy tests
• Glucose
• Hemoglobin

There is a nominal charge due at the time of service for some lab tests done on-site (payable with cash, check or Flex "TigerBucks"). All other laboratory specimens are sent out to a commercial lab and you or your insurance company will be billed.

If my doctor at home wants me to have a blood test, can this be done at the SHC?

Yes. Initially, you need to make an appointment with a SHC provider to discuss the blood test(s). We ask that you bring in a written request from your doctor or have it faxed to us at (585) 475-7788. Please have the doctor include the test name and the diagnosis code. If you need the same test done at regular intervals, such as monthly testing for Accutane treatment, you do not need an appointment after the initial appointment. For subsequent visits you may come in for a walk in "express" visit. Test results will be reviewed by a SHC provider and you will be notified. You will be asked to complete a "Release of Information Form" so we can send the results to your doctor or other health care provider.

Does the Student Health Center do HIV antibody/other STI (Sexually Transmitted Infection) testing?

Yes. These are offered as two separate appointments. When you make your appointment, please specificy whether you want "HIV testing" and/or "STI testing", because they are scheduled differently.

The HIV testing appointment will be scheduled with a health educator for state mandated pre-test counseling. If you have a rapid oral test done, you will receive the results during the appointment. If you have a blood test, you will be asked to make a follow up appointment for post-test counseling to review the results.

If you request other STI testing, you will be scheduled with a medical provider for evaluation, testing and follow up, as appropriate.

How long does it take for laboratory results to come back and how am I notified of the results?

Turn around time for lab test results varies depending on the test performed. During the time of your visit, the medical provider will let you know approximately when your results should be available.

Some tests require a follow-up appointment to review the results. For others, if the result is normal, you may be notified by postcard. You will be contacted directly for all abnormal results.

Is it okay for me to eat and/or drink before I have a blood test?

Some tests require that you fast (not eat/drink for a certain number of hours) before getting your blood drawn. For example, a cholesterol test requires a 12-hour fast. If you are scheduled to have a blood test please ask us ahead of time if you need to fast.

Does the Student Health Center do x-rays?

We do not offer x-ray or other radiology services on campus. If the medical provider determines that an x-ray or other imaging test is necessary, you will be referred to a radiology facility in the community.