Our Services / Labs

What are labs?

Labs evaluate samples of blood, urine, or tissue to look for signs of disease. 

There are many types of lab tests. Common lab tests include:

Urinalysis

Urinalysis is a common lab test your MIG provider orders to screen for diseases or monitor your diabetes or kidney disease. 

Complete blood count (CBC)

The CBC measures the type and number of cells in your blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Your MIG provider may order a CBC to assess general health, screen for diseases, or check nutritional status. 

Basic metabolic panel (BMP)

The BMP is a blood test that assesses your blood levels of glucose, sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, and carbon dioxide. Your MIG provider orders this test to monitor blood sugar levels, fluid balance, and kidney function.

They may order a BMP for chronic care management to assess how well your medication is controlling your chronic illnesses.  

Complete metabolic panel (CMP)

The CMP is a blood test. It includes all the measurements from the BMP plus testing that evaluates organ function. 

Prothrombin time (PT)

PT, also known as pro time, is a blood test that assesses how long it takes for your blood to clot. Your MIG provider may order PT labs if you take blood-thinning medication such as Coumadin®.

Cultures

Cultures are lab tests your MIG provider uses to look for infections such as a urinary tract infection (UTI) or strep throat. 

Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)

The TSH lab test assesses thyroid function, looking for signs of a thyroid disorder. 

When do I need labs?

MIG internal medicine providers order labs when you visit for an annual physical exam. Labs assess your current health and risk of future health problems.

Your MIG provider may also order labs to diagnose a health condition or monitor chronic health conditions as part of your chronic care management program. 

How do I prepare for labs?

Your MIG provider gives you specific instructions on how to prepare for your labs. You may be advised not to eat or drink for a certain amount of time before testing.

You may also need to modify your medication schedule or skip your vitamin supplements. 

Not following your MIG provider’s instructions may affect the results of your labs and require additional testing. 

Contact a Midsouth Independent Group provider today.