Test FAQs

Many patients have questions before, during and after providing a specimen for a test. Below are some of the most Frequently Asked Questions (“FAQs”) that we receive. If you have question(s) that are not listed or would like additional information, please feel free to CONTACT US via our website or call our Customer Service Department at 808-589-5101.

Q: When will my test results be available?
A: Most test results are ready by the next day. However, availability may vary depending on the type of test. Your physician is provided with the results as soon as they are complete. Please contact your physician for the results.

Q: My doctor ordered some blood tests. Can I eat or drink before the test?
A: This is dependent upon the type of blood tests ordered. Your physician should tell you if the test(s) require fasting (no eating, drinking, gum chewing, etc.). If you are unsure, please contact your physician or ask our laboratory personnel.

Q: Can I take my medications before I take my blood tests?
A: Please take your medication unless your doctor gives you specific instructions not to do so.

Q: What are the instructions for collecting a 24-hour urine specimen?
A: You’ll find the instructions on the collection container that is given to you.

Q: What insurance companies participate with DLS? How do I find out if mine is one of them?
A: For a list of Participating Insurance Providers, please refer to the Patients Insurance and Billing section of our website.

Q: Where are you located? Can I go to any of your locations to have my tests done?
A: DLS has many locations throughout the State of Hawaii, Guam and Saipan that you can go to. For your convenience, you can chose from any of our DLS Satellite Locations. We offer a variety of locations, convenient operating hours, parking recommendations/alternatives as well as Map and Driving Instructions to help you chose the testing site that best suits your needs.

Q: What kind of specimen is collected for a drug (toxicology) test?
A: Urine is the most common specimen type because drugs are cleared out of the bloodstream primarily by the liver and kidneys and eliminated through urine. (For more information about drug (toxicology) testing, click here.)

Q: Do I have to have a doctor’s order to have lab tests done?
A: According to State and Federal Regulations, DLS must receive an order from your physician/health care provider before any laboratory tests can be performed (with the exception of the self-administered Veri-5 Drug Testing Kit). Your physician/health care provider will give you a DLS requisition (test order form) to show which tests he/she has ordered.

Q: Do I have to have a physician / health care provider’s approval to have a self-administered (i.e., Veri-5 Drug Testing Kit, etc.) run?
A: No physician order is necessary for a self-administered drug test such as the Veri-5 Drug Testing Kit. Simply follow the collection directions that come with the kit. Drop off the specimen at any DLS locations and you’ll be able to access your confidential results the next working day.