Diabetes check (glucose)
Measures the sugar in your blood. Useful if you have symptoms such as thirst, tiredness or frequent urination, or a family history of diabetes. A fasting sample may be needed.
Blood Tests
Know your numbers. Our rapid finger-prick tests give you a snapshot of key health markers in the pharmacy, with a pharmacist on hand to explain what the results mean and what to do next.
About Blood Tests
A finger-prick test needs only a few drops of blood and gives a result within minutes. It is a convenient way to keep an eye on your health, check the effect of lifestyle changes or find out whether something needs a closer look.
These tests are a useful guide, not a diagnosis. If a result is outside the expected range, your pharmacist will explain it and, where needed, recommend a follow-up with your GP and a laboratory test.
Pharmacist interpretation
Every result is explained in plain English.
Private room
Your test and results stay between you and our team.
Instant results
No waiting days for a lab. You leave with your answer.
Advice you can use
Tailored lifestyle advice and, when needed, a recommendation to see your GP.
Tests available
Cholesterol
Looks at total cholesterol, HDL (“good”), LDL (“bad”) and triglycerides, which are all linked to heart and circulatory health.
Vitamin D
Checks your vitamin D level, important for bones, muscles and immunity, especially in the UK’s darker months.
Iron
Helps spot low iron, a common cause of tiredness, or too much iron in the body.
Uric acid
High levels are linked to gout and joint pain, and can be affected by diet, alcohol and some medicines.
Lactate
Shows how your body uses oxygen during exercise. Often used by people who train regularly.
β-ketone
Measures ketones, relevant for people with diabetes who are unwell and for people following very low-carbohydrate diets.
Who might benefit?
A blood test can help if you…
- Are over 40 and want to check cholesterol and sugar levels
- Have a family history of heart disease or diabetes
- Feel unusually tired, thirsty or run down
- Are changing your diet or exercise and want to track progress
Speak to a doctor rather than book a test if…
- You have chest pain, severe breathlessness or sudden weakness: call 999
- You feel very unwell with high blood sugar symptoms or vomiting: seek urgent medical help
- You are already being monitored for a condition: your GP or clinic will arrange the right tests
How it works
Choose your test
Pick the test that fits your needs, or ask our pharmacist to recommend one.
Quick consultation
We check relevant history, medicines and any symptoms.
Finger-prick sample
A tiny sample of blood is taken and tested in the pharmacy.
Results and advice
We explain your result and agree your next steps.
A guide, not a diagnosis
Finger-prick tests are screening tools. Results outside the expected range should be confirmed by your GP, who may arrange a laboratory test.
Before & after your visit
How to prepare
- Some tests, such as glucose, are best done fasting, and we will tell you when you book
- Drink water beforehand and keep your hands warm
- Bring a list of your regular medicines
Aftercare & what to expect
- A tiny plaster over the finger-prick is all you need
- Follow any lifestyle advice we give and retest when recommended
- See your GP if we advise a follow-up
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to fast?
Some tests, especially glucose and cholesterol, are more accurate when fasting. We will tell you what to do when you book.
How accurate are finger-prick tests?
They are good as a screening guide. If a result is borderline or abnormal, a laboratory test through your GP is the usual next step.
Is the test painful?
You will feel a quick pinprick on the side of your fingertip. Most people say it is barely noticeable.
Can the pharmacist diagnose a condition?
The pharmacist will interpret your result and advise you. A diagnosis is made by your GP or a specialist.
Trusted sources
This page is general information, not personal medical advice. For urgent advice call NHS 111; in an emergency call 999.
Ready to book?
Choose a time that suits you, or call us on 01702 203233.