Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility
Skip to Content

Blood Panels & Laboratory in Fargo

person receiving getting blood drawn

As adults, we may need to have a blood panel done from time to time, whether it’s because we’re on certain medications that require monitoring of organ function or it’s part of an annual health check. But what exactly are medical providers looking for when they order a blood panel, and why is blood work necessary?

Book Appointment

Blood Panel & Laboratory Facility

When a medical provider orders lab tests, they’re trying to catch early warning signs of disease or other health conditions, before symptoms appear. The blood tests your medical provider orders will depend on your family risk factors and medical history, sex, age, and certain medications you may be taking. Baseline tests will check for metabolic function, blood cell counts, and blood sugar levels. Your medical provider will often order a blood panel that tests for a variety of things with a single draw.

Complete Blood Count (CBC)-this test checks platelets, white cells, and red blood cells. A complete blood panel can identify conditions such as infection, leukemia and other cancers, autoimmune disease, heart disease, and anemia.

Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP)-this blood test will check for blood sugar levels, lung function, and kidney function by testing electrolyte levels, blood sugar, and blood filtration. It can identify common lung and kidney problems, as well as pre-diabetes and diabetes.

Lipid Panel-this test checks for triglycerides and cholesterol in the blood and can also detect plaque buildup in the arteries.

Other tests commonly ordered include:

  • Nutrient tests check the blood for levels of certain vitamins or minerals, such as vitamin D, iron, and B12
  • Thyroid panel tests checks the thyroid gland
  • Patients with diabetes will commonly take the A1C test, which offers a more accurate picture of blood sugar levels, compared to a basic glucose test.

Why You Might Need Blood Panels / Work / Tests

From diagnosing disease to treating illness, blood tests can give your medical provider the perfect opportunity to peer into the pathological and physiological state of your health.

Blood tests can tell your medical provider a lot about your health. It can tell them about organ function, your metabolism, diet, and more.

The main reasons medical providers will request a blood panel includes:

  • Organ function
  • The cause of shortness of breath or unexplained fatigue
  • Explain unexpected weight gain or weight loss
  • What nutrients you need more of
  • Hormone levels
  • Diabetes
  • Track health progress

Associations & Awards

Testimonials

What to Expect at Your Visit

Your medical provider may recommend a BMP or CBC every year at your wellness visit. Other tests ordered can depend on your personal and family history, lifestyle, and age. In many cases, your medical provider will ask you to fast for twelve hours before the blood draw. Fasting helps prevent chemical changes and fluctuations in blood sugar levels.

Your medical provider will use different vials for each blood sample, but only one needle will be required. The sample is then sent to the lab, which provides the results in a few days. If one of the panels shows abnormal cells, further testing will be necessary.

patient recieving a checkup

Cost of Treatment / Insurance

Most insurance policies will cover the cost of blood work. To learn more, contact your insurance provider regarding coverage and cost.

Below is a list of the accepted insurance providers at Altaire Clinic.

  • Aetna
  • BCBS of MN
  • BCBS of ND
  • Cigna
  • Health Partners
  • Humana
  • Medica
  • Medicare
  • ND Medicaid
  • Preferred One
  • Sanford
  • Tricare/Health Net Federal Services
  • United Health Care
  • VA PC3 (Optum)

*Please contact us if you have any questions as to if we accept your insurance.

altaire clinic team

Make an Appointment

Good health begins with your first visit to Altaire Clinic. If it’s been a long time since you had a routine wellness visit or blood panels done, contact us today to schedule an appointment. At Altaire Clinic, you’ll find a team that’s dedicated to providing the best care to every patient that walks through our door. Get started on your path to wellness now by contacting us at (701) 356-5503.

Why Choose Altaire Clinic

At Altaire Clinic, our patients receive quality care through a long-term direct relationship with their medical provider and health care team. Our health care teams are responsive, compassionate, and caring, making quality patient care a priority.

 

Book Appointment

Common Questions About Blood Panel / Work / Test

What is Included in a Blood Panel?

A blood panel measures the different parts of the blood, including hemoglobin, platelets, and white blood cells and red blood cells.

What is a Full Blood Work Panel Called?

Comprehensive metabolic panel. This test add in liver function along with the BMP results.

What Should You Not Do Before a Blood Test?

In most cases, you will need to abstain from food and drink for twelve hours prior to blood work. In others, you will have certain restrictions, such as avoiding specific food and drinks including herbal teas, cooked meats, and alcohol.

How Often Should You Get Blood Tested?

Medical providers recommend that patients have routine blood tests done at least once a year, around the same time as their physical exams.

Contact Us

We encourage you to book a consultation, so one of our providers can personally discuss your needs and recommend the procedures best suited to your lifestyle. Contact us by phone or use the convenient form below so you can reach your ultimate health, wellness, & beauty goals.