You've got a pathology request from your doctor — a printed form, or maybe just a code and instructions on your phone. What actually goes on that form, and what do you need to walk into the collection centre with?
This guide unpacks both halves: what's on the request form, and what to bring (or not bring) to your blood or sample collection appointment.
Need a pathology referral? See an AHPRA-registered GP online — referrals from $25, consults from $49, sent digitally.
Get a Pathology ReferralWhat's on a Pathology Request Form
Every Australian pathology request form carries the same core sections:
If your doctor gives you a paper form, it will have their signature. Many practices now use electronic requests instead — the doctor sends the request straight to the pathology company, and you simply give your name and date of birth at the collection centre. Telehealth services like NewTeleDoc Medical issue pathology referrals online (from $25), delivered digitally so you can head straight to a collection centre.
Paper signature or digital — both accepted.
GP-ordered tests are usually bulk billed.
Some tests need 8–12 hours without food.
Back in 24–48 hours for routine tests.
What to Bring to the Collection Centre
Here's your practical checklist:
- ✅ The request itself — the printed form, or the SMS/email/e-form on your phone if the request was sent electronically
- ✅ Your Medicare card — GP-requested medically necessary tests are generally bulk billed, but the lab needs your Medicare number to claim
- ✅ Photo ID — some centres ask, and it's always handy if your name on the form differs from your current ID
- ✅ Concession cards (DVA, pensioner or health care card) if relevant to billing
- ✅ Any sample you were asked to collect — for example, a midstream urine sample in the correct sterile container
- ✅ Previous results or reports if your doctor asked you to bring them (e.g. for comparison with past imaging or pathology)
- ✅ A book or headphones — wait times vary, especially in busy mornings
What you don't need to bring: cash in most cases — GP-ordered tests that meet Medicare criteria are typically bulk billed at the major Australian pathology companies. If your doctor has ordered a test that isn't Medicare-eligible (some specialised or wellness tests), the centre will quote you a fee first — you're always told before anything is charged.
Before You Go: The Prep That Matters
The collection centre can't change what's on the request form, so the preparation happens on your end:
- Fasting: some tests (classically fasting blood glucose and lipid studies) require 8–12 hours with no food — water is fine. Check whether your form or instructions mention fasting
- Timing: certain tests must be collected at a specific time of day (for example, some hormone and cortisol tests in the morning)
- Medications: take your usual medications unless your doctor specifically said otherwise — but mention everything you take to the collector
- Hydration: being well hydrated makes blood collection easier
- Skip the gym beforehand if it's a sensitive test — intense exercise can alter some results
If you're unsure whether you needed to fast, ring the collection centre before setting out — they can read the request details and tell you.
What Happens at the Collection Centre
- Check-in — hand over your request form (or e-request details) and Medicare card; staff confirm your details match
- Waiting — usually minutes, longer at peak morning times
- Collection — a trained collector takes the blood (a few minutes), or arranges your urine or other sample
- Done — results go to your doctor, typically within 24–48 hours for routine tests; some specialised tests take longer
Results are sent to the requesting doctor — not directly to you — so book a follow-up to discuss them. If you had a telehealth GP issue the referral, the results flow back to that consulting doctor.
Lost the Form or the SMS?
Nothing to panic about: contact the clinic that issued the request. They can resend an electronic request or reissue a printed form. The request exists in the lab's system if it was sent electronically — like eScripts, only the message is missing, not the referral.
Telehealth is for non-urgent care. Seek emergency medical attention immediately if you experience:
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing
- Severe or rapidly worsening symptoms
- Heavy bleeding, fainting or seizure
- Any other medical emergency
Call 000 or go to your nearest emergency department.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Common questions about pathology request forms and collection centres.
What details are on a pathology request form?
A pathology request form includes your full name, date of birth, contact details and Medicare number; the requesting doctor's name, AHPRA registration and provider number; the specific tests requested with clinical notes; who results are sent to; the priority level; and any special instructions such as fasting or timing requirements.
Do I need to bring my Medicare card to the pathology centre?
Yes. GP-requested medically necessary tests are generally bulk billed, but the pathology company needs your Medicare number to claim the subsidy. If you don't have your card on you, they can usually look up your number with your consent — but bringing it makes check-in faster.
Do I need to print the pathology request form?
Not necessarily. Many doctors now send electronic requests directly to the pathology company, so you just give your name and date of birth at the collection centre. If you were sent an SMS or email request, show it on your phone. Paper forms with a signature are still widely accepted too.
Are blood tests bulk billed in Australia?
Most GP-ordered, medically necessary pathology tests are bulk billed by the major Australian pathology companies — meaning no out-of-pocket cost for Medicare card holders. Some specialised or non-Medicare-eligible tests attract a fee, which the collection centre must disclose before collecting.
Can I get a pathology referral online?
Yes. At NewTeleDoc Medical, an AHPRA-registered GP can assess you by telehealth and issue a pathology referral online from $25, delivered digitally — you can then attend any Australian pathology collection centre. See our guide to getting a blood test referral online in Australia.
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