We know waiting for results can be a worrying time. This page explains how to get your results and what happens next. Please don't assume 'no news is good news' — always check your results using one of the ways below.
How to Get Your Results
The quickest way to check your results is online, through the NHS App. You don’t need to wait on hold or come into the practice.
- ›NHS App — results from the lab usually appear here as soon as they're ready. Download the NHS App and link it to your GP record if you haven't already.
- ›If you have concerns and would like to speak with a clinician, submit an appointment request here.
Please note: a result appearing on the NHS App does not mean a clinician has reviewed it yet. There is often a delay between the lab processing a result and one of our clinicians checking it. Once reviewed, we will message you or arrange an appointment if needed — so please don't be alarmed if you see a result before hearing from us.
How Long Results Take
Most results are ready within the times below, though some tests take longer depending on where they’re processed.
If you haven’t heard anything after this time, please get in touch.
What Happens Next
Your result will appear on the NHS App once the lab has processed it. After that, one of our clinicians will review it. What happens next depends on what it shows:
- Normal results: you may not always hear from us directly, but you're welcome to call or check the app to confirm your result has been reviewed.
- For small changes: like a medication adjustment, we'll contact you by text or email. We may also book a phone appointment to discuss it.
- Results that need a proper discussion: Our team will help you schedule an appointment to discuss by phone or in person, so a clinician can talk you through them properly.
Once a clinician has reviewed your result, we will message you or arrange an appointment if needed. If you're worried, or you haven't heard back in the time you expected, please contact us — it's always OK to check.
Tests Done at a Hospital or Clinic
If your test was arranged by a hospital, specialist, or another service (rather than by us), your results will go directly to them, not to us.
- In this case, the hospital or specialist team will usually contact you directly.
- It is best to wait and discuss your results with them, as they will have the specialist to advise you on next steps.
- We may also receive a copy for your GP record, but this isn't always the best way to find out your result.
Smear Tests (Cervical Screening)
Cervical screening results are sent by letter, usually within 2 weeks. You don’t need to contact us unless:
- ›You haven't received your letter after 2 weeks
- ›Your letter asks you to book a follow-up appointment
- ›You have questions about what your result means
- ›Submit a request here or call us on 020 3728 2551.
If You're Worried
If you’re feeling anxious while waiting for results, you don’t need to wait — you can contact us at any time to ask for an update or to talk to someone.
If you develop new or worsening symptoms while waiting for results, please don't wait — contact us, call NHS 111, or in an emergency call 999.
Urgent help
Emergency? Call 999.
When we're closed, call NHS 111 or visit 111.nhs.uk.
