Why You Should Discuss Your Lab Results Face-to-Face—Not Just Over Email or Text!
I called my doctor’s office, asking for my blood test results. They emailed them over but said, “The doctor would like to see you to go over them.”
Ugh. Why? Can’t they just tell me if everything’s okay?
I get it—life is busy, and coming in for an appointment feels unnecessary if the results are “just numbers.” But here’s why discussing your lab results in person isn’t just protocol—it’s actually important for your health.
1. Lab Results Need Context
Ever seen a test marked “abnormal” and panicked? Or assumed a “normal” result meant you were fine? Lab reports don’t tell the whole story.
- A “normal” range is based on averages, not your body.
- An “abnormal” result may not mean anything serious—or it could signal something that needs follow-up.
- Some tests need to be looked at together with other markers, your symptoms, and history.
Your doctor’s job is to interpret the data and tell you what actually matters.
2. Face-to-Face Conversations Prevent Unnecessary Worry (or False Reassurance)
When people receive their results without an explanation, they either:
✅ Google everything and scare themselves into thinking they have a serious disease.
❌ Assume everything is fine and ignore early warning signs.
Neither is ideal. A direct conversation helps you avoid unnecessary stress or missing something important.
3. Non-Verbal Cues Are Everything
Communication isn’t just words—it’s body language.
When I explain test results in person, I can tell if you look confused, overwhelmed, or worried. If I see that something isn’t clicking, I can rephrase, simplify, or even draw things out to make sure you truly understand.
An email? It doesn’t let me see if you’re getting the full picture.
4. You Get Immediate Answers
Let’s say you get your results by email and don’t fully understand them. What happens next?
You email back, wait for a response, maybe schedule another appointment. More time, more frustration.
An in-person visit lets you:
- Ask follow-up questions right away.
- Get answers specific to your health and lifestyle.
- Discuss next steps without unnecessary back-and-forth.
5. Your Health Is More Than Just a Number
Lab tests are just one piece of the puzzle. They need to be considered alongside:
- Your symptoms
- Your medical history
- Your risk factors
A doctor isn’t just reading numbers—they’re making sense of them for you so you can make informed decisions about your health.
Bottom Line
I know coming in for a discussion can feel like a hassle, but it’s not about making life harder—it’s about making sure you get the best care.
Your health isn’t just a test result. It’s a conversation.
Have you ever been confused by your lab results or our explanation does not make sense? Don’t be shy, do let us know! We will be happy to personally explain it to you.
