Preparation guide
Preparing for Home Collection
Home Collection changes where a specimen is collected, not the medical purpose or preparation requirements of the requested test.
Why is this important?
Understanding the purpose and limits of laboratory information can support a more informed conversation with a qualified healthcare professional.
How laboratory testing relates
Confirm the request, address, contact details, and exact preparation instructions. Availability, coverage, timing, and specimen eligibility must be confirmed by the laboratory.
Before testing
Preparation is test-specific. Follow the instructions given for the exact test and contact the laboratory if fasting, timing, medicines, or specimen collection is unclear. Do not stop medicines unless a qualified professional tells you to.
Sources & further reading
- MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine: How to Prepare for a Lab Test
External authoritative patient reference · Verified 2026-08-10
- MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine: At-Home Medical Tests
External authoritative patient reference · Verified 2026-08-10
