General screening
Blood tests can provide an overview of markers such as blood cell counts, glucose, cholesterol and aspects of liver or kidney function depending on the panel requested.
General and specific blood tests for routine health checks, monitoring and investigation. A small blood sample can provide useful information about blood counts, glucose, cholesterol, organ function, hormones, vitamins, minerals and other markers depending on the test requested.
Blood testing is used for many different reasons. Some tests are requested as part of a routine check-up, while others help investigate symptoms, monitor an existing condition or assess a particular marker.
Blood tests can provide an overview of markers such as blood cell counts, glucose, cholesterol and aspects of liver or kidney function depending on the panel requested.
A clinician may request specific blood tests when investigating symptoms or checking for issues such as anaemia, infection, thyroid problems or nutritional deficiencies.
Repeat blood tests can be used to monitor conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disease or high cholesterol, or to follow treatment where clinically appropriate.
The blood draw itself usually takes only a few minutes. The exact tests performed depend on what has been requested, and the time needed for laboratory results varies between routine and more specialised investigations.
Bring your doctor's request if you have one, or tell our team which blood tests you require.
Some tests require fasting or other preparation. Ask beforehand if you are unsure.
A healthcare professional takes a small sample, usually from a vein in your arm, using sterile equipment.
The sample is analysed for the requested markers. Result times depend on the specific test.
Not every blood test requires special preparation. The most important step is to confirm the instructions for the exact test you are having rather than assuming you need to fast.
Some blood tests may require fasting, commonly for around 8–12 hours. If fasting has been requested, follow the instructions provided and ask whether water is permitted.
Being adequately hydrated can make the blood draw easier. If your test has specific fluid restrictions, follow those instructions instead.
Tell the healthcare professional about relevant medication and supplements. Do not stop prescribed medication unless the clinician responsible for your care specifically instructs you to do so.
Choose from our general blood test or ask about targeted screening and hormone profiles. The exact tests in a targeted profile can be confirmed when booking, particularly where the appropriate panel depends on sex, age, symptoms or clinical history.
Our general panel combines haematology, glucose control, cholesterol, kidney and liver markers, thyroid testing, vitamins, minerals and inflammatory markers. The full list currently included is shown below.
A focused blood test measuring testosterone. Timing and interpretation can depend on why the test is being performed.
A sexual-health screening profile can include blood tests for HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B & C, with chlamydia and gonorrhoea testing commonly performed using a urine sample or swab rather than blood. The appropriate tests depend on exposure history and timing, so the exact panel should be confirmed when booking.
Hormone profiles are selected according to the clinical question. They may include markers such as testosterone, SHBG, LH, FSH, oestradiol, prolactin and thyroid hormones. Other markers may be added when clinically appropriate. The clinic should confirm the exact requested profile before sampling.
The following analytes are included in the general blood-test list supplied by St Mary's Clinic.
Glucose: the supplied laboratory lists show both random and fasting glucose in different records. The appropriate glucose sample should be selected according to the test request and preparation instructions.
A laboratory value should be interpreted in context rather than in isolation. Reference ranges, symptoms, medical history, medication and the reason the test was ordered can all influence what a result means.
A result outside a laboratory reference range does not automatically diagnose a condition, and a result within range does not always exclude one. Interpretation depends on clinical context.
Depending on the result, your doctor may recommend a repeat blood test, additional investigations, treatment or lifestyle changes.
If a result is significantly abnormal or you have concerning symptoms, seek appropriate medical advice rather than trying to interpret the result alone.
Blood-test results at St Mary's Clinic are reviewed by our local General Practitioner, Dr Daniela Zammit. This adds clinical context to the laboratory values rather than presenting results as numbers alone.
Dr Daniela Zammit reviews the blood-test results and can identify findings that may require clinical follow-up. Where appropriate, patients can be advised to arrange further assessment, repeat testing or additional investigation.
Dr Zammit is not yet listed on the St Mary's Clinic website, so no practitioner photograph or additional qualifications have been added here until these are supplied and verified.
General guidance about blood testing. Instructions for your specific test should always take priority.
No. Some tests require fasting and others do not. Confirm the preparation instructions for the exact blood test you are having.
The current St Mary's page states that the actual blood draw usually takes less than five minutes, although the overall appointment can take longer.
Turnaround depends on the test. Routine investigations may be available relatively quickly, while specialised hormone, immunology or other tests can take longer.
Tell the team before the sample is taken. Depending on the test, it may be better to proceed with that information documented or to rearrange the test.
St Mary's states that numerous specific blood tests are available. Contact the clinic with the exact test name so availability, preparation and price can be confirmed.
There is no single schedule suitable for everyone. Frequency depends on age, medical history, symptoms, medication and whether a condition is being monitored.
St Mary's Medical Clinic · 9/11 Triq il-Barrieri, Mosta MST 3250, Malta · Mon–Fri 8:00am–6:00pm · Sat 8:00am–1:00pm