Lab testing checks for infections, changes in blood chemistry, and other health concerns that may help explain your symptoms or guide medical care. Depending on your needs, tests can help identify illnesses such as strep throat, flu, and COVID-19, or evaluate blood sugar, kidney function, and other health indicators. AFC Urgent Care Medford offers a range of on-site laboratory tests to help patients get answers and determine their next steps. We serve Medford, Somerville, Malden, and nearby Massachusetts communities seven days a week from 8 AM to 8 PM, with walk in care available.
What Can Lab Tests Detect at Urgent Care?
Lab tests can help providers identify infections, evaluate symptoms, and assess certain aspects of your health. The type of test recommended depends on your symptoms, medical history, and reason for visiting.
At AFC Urgent Care Medford, available testing includes:
- Infections: Rapid tests can help identify conditions such as strep throat, flu, COVID, and mononucleosis.
- Blood health: A complete blood count can measure different blood cells and help evaluate certain infections or other health concerns.
- Blood chemistry: Testing may assess glucose levels, liver function, kidney function, and other important indicators.
- Urinary concerns: A urinalysis can help evaluate signs of a urinary tract infection or other urinary issues.
- Sexual health: STI testing can help detect certain sexually transmitted infections.
When Should You Get Lab Testing at Urgent Care
You may need lab testing when symptoms suggest an infection or another condition that requires further evaluation. A provider may recommend testing if you have a persistent sore throat, fever, urinary discomfort, or symptoms that are difficult to explain through an examination alone.
Lab work can also be useful for specific health requirements. For example, AFC Urgent Care Medford offers sickle cell testing for college athletes who need screening before participating in competitive sports.
Seek urgent medical evaluation if your symptoms are worsening or not improving. For severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or sudden confusion, seek emergency care instead of waiting for an urgent care visit.
How Does Lab Testing Work at Urgent Care?
Lab testing typically begins with a medical evaluation to determine which tests may help answer your healthcare questions. Depending on the test, a provider may collect a blood sample, urine sample, or swab from your throat or nose.
Some tests are processed at the clinic and can provide rapid results. Other samples are sent to an outside laboratory for further analysis. The time it takes to receive results depends on the specific test and the type of analysis required.
At AFC Urgent Care Medford, our on site lab services support the evaluation of common illnesses and other health concerns. We can explain what the results mean and whether treatment, additional testing, or follow up with your primary care provider is needed.
Get Lab Testing at AFC Urgent Care Medford
AFC Urgent Care Medford provides diagnostic testing to help patients understand their symptoms and make informed decisions about their health. We are open seven days a week from 8 AM to 8 PM, welcome walk-in patients, accept most major insurance plans, and offer affordable options for self paying patients. Call us at (617) 582-2800 or visit our website to learn more about our on site lab testing services and save your spot.