Sometimes the GP is asked to order blood tests on behalf of a specialist, allied health professional (e.g., a dietitian or physiotherapist), or alternative healthcare provider. We cannot always do this. You can read why below.
If a specialist deems blood tests necessary, they or their assistant can request them themselves. The results will then be sent directly to the specialist, who can best assess them.
Allied health professionals and alternative healthcare providers
These healthcare providers sometimes request tests that do not fall within the scope of regular GP care (such as blood type, zinc, copper, or certain vitamins). We cannot always assess these results. Therefore, we ask that they request these tests themselves, possibly through a commercial laboratory.