FAQ's
General Information
• Who is considered a ‘regulated’ health professional?
Any health care professional that is regulated by a provincial ministry of health can sign your test order. This includes physicians, pharmacists, chiropractors, naturopathic doctors, and registered nurses. Some provinces regulate other health professions as well. Email info@rmalab.com if you are not sure whether your health care provider can order your test.
• Why doesn’t health care cover the cost of testing?
Rocky Mountain Analytical is a private laboratory operating outside the publicly funded system. Provincial initiatives to reduce health care costs mean it is unlikely that private tests, like salivary hormones, will be added to the list of publicly funded laboratory tests. However, some private insurers may cover the cost of private tests.
• How much is a test, and how do I pay?
Prices vary according to what is being tested, and whether your provider includes a consultation with the test. Your health care provider can tell you what it will cost to have a test done.
Most health care providers ask you to pay when you receive the test kit. If your provider does not want you to pay him/her, then you must enclose payment with your sample. Your health provider will let you know the amount owing, or you may call the laboratory. If you need to call the laboratory, please ensure you can provide our office with the name of the test you are doing. This information will be marked on the bottom of your requisition that your health provider signed before you left their office.
Failure to enclose payment will result in a delay in testing your sample. Full payment is in Canadian dollars and must include GST. You may pay by personal cheque or you may use Visa or Mastercard. If using a credit card for payment, a credit card authorization form must be completed and sent with your sample.
• How do I find out my results?
Test results are sent directly to the health care provider who has signed your requisition. He or she will discuss your results with you. Regulated health professionals are well-equipped to assist you in deciphering your results and deciding what your next step should be. Your health care provider can call our office should any questions arise.
If you would like a copy of your results - sent directly to you or to another practitioner - attach a note to the requisition advising where you would like the test report sent. The original report will still be sent to the original ordering health provider. Depending on the test ordered, results will be sent 1 to 3 weeks after we receive your sample at our laboratory. Your health care provider should notify you when the results have been received. Please contact your health provider to discuss your results.
• What happens when I get my results?
Many people assume tests will provide the answer to a health problem. However, tests are only tools to assist the practitioner in finding an appropriate course of treatment. The report Rocky Mountain Analytical sends your health provider will have your numeric values for the test/s performed. These values are compared to an accepted range within which a value would be considered ‘normal’. The range can change depending on information you provide our lab; like what type of medications you are taking or your age. Deciding whether a medical course of action is required is up to you and your health provider. Therefore, it is important to choose a practitioner who will provide the necessary follow-up.