Book your blood test online
16 October 2015
Health Care
Patients requiring a blood test can now book an appointment online thanks to a new service now available at Southend University Hospital.
Launched by Pathology First as part of a phlebotomy improvement
programme, the swiftQueue online booking system is accessible
through the hospital's website and offers appointments for all
types of blood tests. In the case of some more complex blood tests
patients may need to come to the hospital, but most will be able to
choose appointments at any of the local community phlebotomy
clinics.
Appointments can be booked online 24 hours a day, seven days a
week; additionally the online option allows friends, relatives and
carers to book blood test appointments on behalf of others
providing they have their permission.
Operations manager, David Stokes, said: "Giving our patients the
option to book an appointment online will help us provide a more
efficient service which in turn will reduce waiting times."
Appointments can be made online by visiting a dedicated blood
tests page on the hospital website: www.southend.nhs.uk/for-patients-visitors/blood-tests
The existing telephone call centre will remain available for
those who do not wish to use the online booking system.
The option to book online will reduce the number of calls to the
hospital's appointment booking line which is often very busy,
meaning patients won't have to wait long for calls to be
answered.
Those wishing to book an appointment by telephone can still call
01702 422555; lines are open from 7.30am to 5.00pm Monday to Friday
(excluding UK public holidays).