Question 1

Can children use your home test kits?

Accepted Answer

No, our service is intended for adults (over 18s) only.

This must be adhered to due to a) the ethical implications of taking samples from minors and b) to ensure analysis and results comparison is against appropriate normal ranges.

For blood testing of children, we recommend you discuss with your GP.

Question 2

Can I cancel my order & request a refund?

Accepted Answer

You can cancel your order within 21 days of it being placed to receive a refund.

Note that once test kits have been dispatched, then even if unopened they cannot be returned to us in order to maintain quality standards.

As such refunds will include a &pound;9.00 deduction to cover the cost of your sampling kit. Your test kit should then be disposed of once you have removed your personal details.

A deduction may also be made for your transaction procssing fee. Please view our terms for full details.

Refunds will be returned to the card you paid with and can take 5 &ndash; 10 days to be credited to your account.

Please contact us from your registered email address to cancel your order and arrange a refund.

Question 3

Can I order tests for other people?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but it is essential that you set them up with a new account using a unique email address.

It is critical that the name, date of birth, and gender of the account holder matches the sample. This is to ensure correct sample identification by the laboratory and to ensure that your tests are analysed correctly.

A unique email address allows us to create a dedicated account and ensure that the correct results are always assigned to the appropriate individual.

In the event that you&rsquo;ve accidentally placed a test for someone else on your account, please contact us and we will amend this for you as required.

Question 4

Do you sell tests to countries outside of the UK?

Accepted Answer

No, currently we only serve the UK market. Our test kits are designed for self-sampling but must be returned to a certified & accredited UK laboratory for analysis.

As such the transportation of biological samples across borders is not a practical solution, unfortunately.

Question 5

Where are your terms & conditions?

Accepted Answer

Here at Vitall we strive to be fair with all of our customers and make your experience with us a positive one.

We want you to understand the process involved in providing our services to you and what measures are in place to protect your rights as a customer.

Our terms and conditions are here in full detail.

Question 6

How long will my test kit take to be delivered?

Accepted Answer

With our standard Freepost delivery option, kits will be posted to you the same day if orders are received by 14:00 (Monday - Friday). Test kits are sent using Royal Mail 24 and will fit through your letterbox.

Typically, this service takes 1 &ndash; 2 days to arrive, however, this cannot be guaranteed. Please allow up to seven days for test kits to be delivered in this instance.
In the event that your kit does not arrive in this timeframe, please contact us and a replacement test kit will be dispatched to you ASAP at no charge.

Question 7

Is next day delivery guaranteed?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if you opted for the next-day delivery option at checkout. If your test kit has not been delivered then please contact us for tracking information.

Please note we cannot guarantee an arrival date with our standard Freepost option, as they are sent untracked.

Question 8

My test kit has not arrived?

Accepted Answer

If you selected a next-day delivery option, please get in touch with us to receive your tracking information. If you opted for our standard free-post option, your sampling kits are dispatched via Royal Mail First Class post, which typically takes 1-2 days to arrive.

Please note this service is untracked and, while most kits arrive within this timeframe, delays can occasionally occur. If you do not receive your kit within seven days, please contact us.

We will confirm your address details to ensure accuracy and send a replacement kit at no additional cost.

Question 9

Has the lab received my sample?

Accepted Answer

If your tracked parcel/sample has been marked as delivered by the Royal Mail, but you haven't received a notification from us yet, there are usually two reasons why:


	Your sample has not yet been received by the laboratory.
	Tracked parcels are reported as delivered when they are delivered to the Royal Mail sorting office local to the laboratory. Samples are then transferred in bulk to the laboratory throughout the day, where they are then booked into the laboratory system. At this point you will receive an email notification and your order status will also be updated. So please don't worry if this is the case, there's no need to contact us and we'll update you ASAP.
	Your sample was received, but the pre-printed request form was missing. 
	In this case to adhere to laboratory compliance guidelines, your sample cannot be linked to your Vitall account and analysed. If your form was missing when you returned your sample please contact us as we may be able to provide the lab with an electronic version.

Question 10

How can I make a home nursing appointment?

Accepted Answer

Vitall offers a seamless home health service for htise who prefer venus collection by providing both local clinic visits or registered nurse visits directly to your home. This service ensures you can receive professional blood tests in the UK with the utmost convenience and comfort.

Once you place an order for a nurse visit, a registered nurse from our specialist medical partner will be assigned to your order. You can expect a call from your nurse usually within 48 hours on business days to schedule your appointment. As calls from healthcare professionals may come from a withheld number, please be attentive to answer as it could be regarding your upcoming home visit.

Key Benefits of Nurse Visits:


	Professional Care at Home: Enjoy the highest standard of care without stepping outside your home, perfect for those with busy schedules or mobility issues.
	Personalised Service: Each visit is conducted by a registered nurse who provides personalised care tailored to your health needs.
	Flexibility and Privacy: Schedule your appointment at a time that suits you best, ensuring privacy and convenience.


Booking Your Nurse Visit:


	Order Your Test: Select the nurse visit option when ordering your online lab tests.
	Wait for Your Call: Your assigned nurse will phone you to arrange a visit. Remember, the call may be from a withheld number.
	Prepare for Your Visit: Ensure a suitable space is available for the nurse to conduct the blood test safely and comfortably.


Please be aware that while we strive to arrange your nurse visit promptly, there may be occasional short delays due to regional differences in mobile nurse coverage. We appreciate your understanding and are committed to providing you with a smooth and efficient service.

Utilise our nurse visit service for a hassle-free way to manage your health with professional support right in your home. This option not only brings healthcare to your doorstep but also aligns with Vitall&rsquo;s commitment to offering accessible and high-quality blood testing across the UK.

Question 11

How can I make an appointment at a local clinic?

Accepted Answer

For those who prefer or require venous blood collection over finger-prick tests, Vitall offers you access to a home nursing service and national clinic network. This collaboration ensures that high-quality blood tests in the UK are conveniently accessible through specialised medical facilities.

Clinics are equipped with the latest advancements in healthcare technology and are staffed by registered phlebotomists. These professionals are meticulously trained to ensure a safe, comfortable, and precise blood drawing experience. Opting for a clinic visit can provide a more thorough analysis than home testing kits, and it's a cost-effective alternative to home nurse visits.

Key benefits of a clinic visit:


	Professional Expertise: Each clinic provides a secure environment manned by healthcare professionals skilled in the most up-to-date phlebotomy techniques.
	Easy Online Booking: Arrange your visit through our straightforward online lab tests booking system, choosing a time that fits your busy schedule.
	Affordable Options: Visiting a clinic is often more economical than arranging for a nurse to visit your home.


How this works:


	First check your nearest clinic: Use the page here to search for clinics by entering your postcode, ensuring you can find the closest available options for blood tests in the UK.
	Place your order: Select your test then choose the clinic option at checkout.
	Schedule an appointment: We'll dispatch a venous collection kit to you, and you can use our online booking system to easily book your appointment, providing a hassle-free way to manage your health.
	Return your sample: your kit will contain a prepaid mailbag for secure return to a UKAS accredited lab for analysis.


Utilising our clinic services for your blood tests ensures that you receive accurate, reliable results, helping you make informed decisions about your health. Explore our clinic options today and take control of your health with the support of Vitall's trusted network.

Question 12

Is there any anti-coagulant in my sample tube?

Accepted Answer

We occasionally get asked if the sample tubes in our kits are missing the anti-coagulant, or if it should be stuck to the bottom and not mixing with the sample.

In fact neither is the case, but we can understand the confusion especially if you have used different kits before.

We use two types of tubes for our tests.


	Yellow topped SST (serum separator tubes) have a visible gel layer at the bottom, which is used in the laboratory to help isolate the serum (fluid component) from the blood cells and platelets. Most of our blood tests measure serum levels of the biomarkers of interest, so use SST samples for analysis.
	We also use purple topped (EDTA) tubes. These are used when the blood cells themselves are of interest, for example in a full blood count test. These don't need a separator layer since analysis is done on whole blood to measure cell counts.


Regardless of what tube is included in your kit, both will contain an anti-coagulant to prevent your blood sample clotting.

In both cases the anticoagulant is coated on the tube walls so isn't actually visible!

Question 13

Why does venous collection sometimes fail?

Accepted Answer

Venous blood collection can sometimes fail due to several reasons:


	
	Difficulties in locating veins: Some individuals have challenging veins to access due to factors like obesity, dehydration, or veins that are deep, small, or not well-visible. This can make it harder for the phlebotomist to find an appropriate vein for blood collection.
	
	
	Collapsed veins: Repeated blood draws or improper technique can lead to vein collapse, making it difficult to successfully collect blood from the affected vein.
	
	
	Improper positioning: If the arm is not positioned correctly, such as being extended or flexed too much, it can impede blood flow or cause veins to collapse, hindering successful blood collection.
	
	
	Needle insertion issues: Inadequate needle insertion angle, incorrect vein puncture, or a needle that is too large or too small for the vein can result in failure to collect blood or insufficient sample volume.
	
	
	Patient-related factors: Factors such as anxiety, poor hydration, or low blood pressure can cause veins to constrict or become less prominent, making blood collection more challenging.
	


It's important to note that while these factors can contribute to venous blood collection failures, they do not occur in every case. Skilled phlebotomists, proper patient preparation, and careful technique can greatly improve the success rate of venous blood collection.

Question 14

Do I need to fill the blood sample tube?

Accepted Answer

The majority of our tests only require one sample tube, and it is important that this is filled to the upper fill-line for all of the tests you require to be completed.

To help ensure you can collect enough blood, it helps if:


	Your body is warm - take a brisk walk or a bath/shower before collecting your sample.
	You are fully hydrated - drink plenty of water beforehand.
	You stand up - this helps the blood flow to your fingers.
	You take your time - filling a sample tube can take a minute or two so please be patient!


Three lancets are provided if you cannot get enough blood from your first attempt, but most people should find this straightforward.

If you do struggle to fill a tube and would like to try again, please contact us and a replacement kit will be dispatched at no charge.

Question 15

Do my account details need to match my sample label?

Accepted Answer

Yes! In order to remain compliant with UKAS guidelines, the laboratory can only process fully labeled samples that match the details on your pre-printed request form.

This is a requirement for complete result integrity and to ensure that the correct results are always assigned to the correct person. If this is incorrect the laboratory will have to reject your sample, and not carry out the processing. Unfortunately, this means that we are not able to provide results in this instance.

As such please take extra care to follow all instructions, label the sample & include your test form when it is returned. If your account details are different from the person taking the test, please contact us before returning your sample.

Question 16

Has my sample been received by the laboratory?

Accepted Answer

Upon receipt by the laboratory, your sample will be booked into the Laboratory Information Management System and we will send you an immediate email notification.

Postage to the lab normally takes one to two working days, but if you haven&rsquo;t received a notification from us please allow up to seven days for receipt.

Note that a sample integrity check on blood test samples is performed upon analysis to ensure it is a viable, fresh, high-quality sample. If there are any issues, we will send you a replacement kit free of charge.

Question 17

How do I collect a high quality blood sample?

Accepted Answer

In the evolving landscape of personal health, Vitall's home-based blood testing kits have become increasingly popular. These kits employ capillary blood testing, which involves pricking your skin on your fingertip to collect a small amount of blood for testing.

Your home test kit will contain full instructions for usage, but to to ensure you collect a high-quality sample and attain reliable results, let's delve deeper into the best practices for capillary blood testing at home.

 

Preparation

 


	Hydration: Ensure you're adequately hydrated before you collect your sample. This will improve your blood flow and make it easier to collect your blood. 
	Avoid Alcohol and Nicotine: These substances can impact your blood flow and should be avoided before the test. 



Collecting Your Sample

 

To collect your sample, keep in mind the following steps:


	Warm up: Circulation increases when your body is warm. Therefore, take a shower or a brisk walk before the test to ensure your blood flows easily to your fingers. 
	Clean your finger: Use the alcohol swab to clean your finger and remove any dirt or substances that could potentially contaminate your sample. 
	Prick your finger: Use the lancet provided in your kit to prick the side of your fingertip. Aim for the side rather than the pad as it tends to be less sensitive.
	Collect the blood: Allow your blood to flow into the collection tube until you reach the required fill line. If your blood flow slows down, you can gently massage your hand and finger to stimulate more blood flow.
	Don't squeeze hard: It's important to milk your finger gently rather than squeezing it hard. Hard squeezing may lead to haemolysis, which is the breaking of red blood cells that can affect the quality of your sample.
	Invert the sample tube: Once you've collected enough blood, carefully invert the tube a few times. This will mix your blood with the anticoagulant coated on the tube walls, preventing clotting during transit.


 

Post-Collection Instructions

 

After successfully collecting your sample, adhere to these final instructions:


	Clean the puncture site: Once you're done, place a sticking plaster over the puncture site to prevent infection.
	Handle the sample with care: While inverting the tube, be gentle to avoid causing haemolysis. Excessive shaking can damage the cells in your sample.
	Separator gel plug:  If your tube contains a translucent gel plug at the bottom, don't be alarmed. This is designed to separate the blood cells from the serum when it reaches the lab.
	Timely shipping: Make sure to send your sample to the lab as soon as possible. The longer the delay, the higher the chance for blood cells to degrade, which can affect your test results.


Remember, your sample's quality directly influences the accuracy of your test results. Adhering to these guidelines will ensure that your home-based capillary blood test is as effective and accurate as possible. If you experience any issues during the process, don't hesitate to contact us for assistance.

Question 18

How do I label my sample container correctly?

Accepted Answer

Labelling your sample correctly is crucial to ensuring the correct sample identification when it is returned to the labroratory.

There are two key things to remember before returning your sample.

1) Complete & affix the included sample label

2) Return the included form with your sample

 



Why Is This Important?

 


When your sample is returned to the laboratory, it is critically important it can be identified as being uniquely yours. 

In fact, for compliance reasons the lab cannot run tests when the sample is unlabelled, or the sample label doesn't match the form exactly.

Your sample request form contains a unique ID to match your sample to your Vitall account. Likewise, your name and date of birth are additional identifiers to help ensure the correct match. 

Once your details are checked, your sample will be booked into the laboratory information system. Then a bar code will be attached to your sample, and used throughout the entire analytical process to guarantee the correct identification at all times.

Question 19

When should I take my sample?

Accepted Answer

Firstly, please check the product page or your original order email for any specific instructions. Some blood tests have different requirements e.g. requiring you to fast beforehand or to collect the sample on a particular day.

In general, we highly recommend collecting your sample between Monday to Thursday. Then please post your sample on the same day in the prepaid mailbag included in your home test kit.

This helps ensure your sample isn&rsquo;t delayed over the weekend and allows the laboratory to receive & process the freshest samples possible.

If you do want to post your sample on a Friday, we recommend purchasing a priority postage option at the post office to ensure next-day delivery. The post will be received by the laboratory on Saturdays.

Question 20

What will happen with a clinic visit?

Accepted Answer

This article provides everything you need to know about your medical examination, including why it&rsquo;s required, what it involves, and how to prepare for it.

 

What will my appointment involve?

You will visit your chosen clinic to collect samples such as urine, blood, stool, or saliva for laboratory testing. You won&rsquo;t need to undress, but you may need to loosen clothing for blood pressure checks or body measurements like waist and hip circumference. You are welcome to have a friend or relative present if you wish.

 

Will I need to provide samples?

You may be asked to provide urine, blood, stool, or saliva samples, depending on your test requirements.

 

How long will the appointment take?

Appointments typically last 10&ndash;15 minutes, but may take longer depending on the required tests. 

 

How are appointments arranged?

When placing your order, you selected your preferred clinic, date, and time for the appointment. A confirmation email has been sent to you with all the details, including the date, time, and clinic location.

 

Are there any costs involved?

Any fees for the medical examination are pre-arranged with Vitall. Other costs, like parking or travel, are your responsibility. If you cancel or reschedule within 24 hours of your appointment - or miss the appointment - a &pound;45 rebooking fee applies.

 

What qualifications do the medical examiners have?

All medical examiners are fully trained to perform the required tests and ensure accurate and safe sample collection.

 

What do I do with my sample?

You will be required to post your sample back to the lab in the prepaid mail bag, included in your kit.

 

How can I prepare for my appointment?

Follow any instructions provided, such as fasting for blood tests. Avoid stress, alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco immediately before your appointment, as these can affect your blood pressure. Have information ready, such as past medical visits, current medications, and any history of illness or injury.

 

How can I rearrange my appointment?

Contact your examiner or our customer service centre using the provided details. Please provide at least two working days&rsquo; notice to avoid cancellation fees.

 

What does a blood test involve?

Blood will be drawn from a vein (usually in the arm) into one or more vials, depending on the tests required. Notify the medical examiner if you:


	Have experienced fainting or nausea during blood tests.
	Are taking blood-thinning medication like Warfarin or long-term aspirin.
	Have difficulty clotting or bruise easily.


If fasting is required, you must not eat or drink anything except plain water for at least eight hours before your appointment.

 

What happens to my information?

All data is stored securely and in accordance with the latest data protection legislation. Information collected during your screening is treated as strictly confidential and only shared with your provider and authorised personnel.

 

After Your Blood Test

Following your blood test, you may experience minor side effects like bruising, swelling, or slight bleeding. These are usually harmless and resolve on their own.

Follow these aftercare tips:


	Keep it clean: Leave the dressing/plaster on for at least two hours.
	Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities with the affected arm.
	Stop any bleeding: Apply firm pressure directly over the puncture site and elevate your arm until the bleeding stops.
	Ease discomfort: Use an ice pack for 10 minutes to reduce swelling or pain.


Contact a medical professional if you experience:


	Severe or worsening pain, inflammation, or bruising.
	Persistent swelling.
	Numbness, pins and needles, or coldness in your arm or hand.

Question 21

What happens with a home nursing visit?

Accepted Answer

This article provides everything you need to know about your medical examination, including why it&rsquo;s required, what it involves, and how to prepare for it.

 

What will my appointment involve?

A registered medical examiner will visit to collect samples such as urine, blood, stool, or saliva for laboratory testing.

You won&rsquo;t need to undress, but you may need to loosen clothing for blood pressure checks or body measurements like waist and hip circumference.

You are welcome to have a friend or relative present if you wish.

 

Will I need to provide samples?

You may be asked to provide urine, blood, stool, or saliva samples, depending on your test requirements.

 

How long will the appointment take?

Appointments typically last 10&ndash;15 minutes, but may take longer depending on the required tests. For tests requiring centrifugation, (e.g. kidney function) this can take up to an hour. You will be informed of the estimated duration when your appointment is scheduled.

 

How are appointments arranged?

A medical examiner will call to schedule your appointment at a time and location convenient for you, such as your home or workplace (if a private room is available). Specific requirements, like fasting for a blood test, will be confirmed during the booking process.

 

Are there any costs involved?

Any fees for the medical examination are pre-arranged with Vitall. Other costs, like parking or travel, are your responsibility. If you cancel or reschedule within 48 hours of your appointment - or miss the appointment - a &pound;35 rebooking fee applies.

 

What qualifications do the medical examiners have?

All medical examiners are fully trained to perform the required tests and ensure accurate and safe sample collection.

 

How can I prepare for my appointment?

Follow any instructions provided, such as fasting for blood tests.

Avoid stress, alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco immediately before your appointment, as these can affect your blood pressure.

Have information ready, such as past medical visits, current medications, and any history of illness or injury.

 

How can I rearrange my appointment?

Contact your examiner or our customer service centre using the provided details. Please provide at least two working days&rsquo; notice to avoid cancellation fees.

 

What does a blood test involve?

Blood will be drawn from a vein (usually in the arm) into one or more vials, depending on the tests required. Notify the medical examiner if you:


	Have experienced fainting or nausea during blood tests.
	Are taking blood-thinning medication like Warfarin or long-term aspirin.
	Have difficulty clotting or bruise easily.


If fasting is required, you must not eat or drink anything except plain water for at least eight hours before your appointment.

 

What happens to my information?

All data is stored securely and in accordance with the latest data protection legislation. Information collected during your screening is treated as strictly confidential and only shared with your provider and authorised personnel.


 

After Your Blood Test

Following your blood test, you may experience minor side effects like bruising, swelling, or slight bleeding. These are usually harmless and resolve on their own. Follow these aftercare tips:

Keep it clean: Leave the dressing/plaster on for at least two hours. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities with the affected arm.

Stop any bleeding: Apply firm pressure directly over the puncture site and elevate your arm until the bleeding stops.

Ease discomfort: Use an ice pack for 10 minutes to reduce swelling or pain.

 

Contact a medical professional if you experience:


	Severe or worsening pain, inflammation, or bruising.
	Persistent swelling.
	Numbness, pins and needles, or coldness in your arm or hand.

Question 22

Why were some of my results reported as insufficient sample?

Accepted Answer

For most tests, when your sample is received by the laboratory it is centrifuged to remove the cells and isolate the serum (fluid component) of your blood. 

The volume of serum that results varies, based on the total blood collected and between individuals, and it is used for the analysis of each of your tests individually. 

As these are requested in alphabetical order, and also in different panels, there may be sufficient serum available for the first tests, but unfortunately not for your complete test panel to complete.

This is an infrequent occurrence, as our tests are calibrated to work with the volumes provided in a self collected sample.

However to help minimise the chance of insufficient sample, you may wish to slightly overfill your sample tubes if possible.

Question 23

How does sample haemolysis affect my test results?

Accepted Answer

When your results are reported as having had a haemolysed sample, this refers to when the red blood cells have burst upon or after sample collection. This does not indicate any health problem or risk.

Typically haemolysis can occur:


	when the finger is squeezed too hard during sample collection,
	after collection due to vigorously mixing or shaking of the sample tube,
	or in transit due to exposure to high temperature.


Haemolysis affects the analysis of certain tests, so when no results can be achieved we are able to offer you a repeat test at no charge.

To help minimise the risk of haemolysis, don't squeeze your finger too hard when collecting your blood sample, and take extra care when mixing sample tube(s) thoroughly, but gently, after collection.

Question 24

How long until I get my test results?

Accepted Answer

After the laboratory receives your samples they&rsquo;re booked in and we&rsquo;ll notify you of their arrival.

Analysis times are test dependent, so please check individual tests for details. Most results will usually be available within 24 hours.

We can't guarantee this but we work hard to deliver results quickly and efficiently. We always prioritise the quality of analysis in order to return accurate results. So occasionally results may take a little longer due to the complex nature of biological sample analysis.

Fortunately, our laboratories operate 24/7 so results are delivered at all hours and over the weekend. We know you're keen to get your test results quickly so we'll notify you as soon as your test analysis has completed.


Why Test Results Can Sometimes Take Longer Than Expected

Our laboratories operate 24/7 to process samples as efficiently as possible. However, some factors can occasionally extend turnaround times. Accuracy and reliability always come first, so we’re unable to guarantee exact completion times for every test.

Sample Receipt and Booking
Once your sample arrives, it must be logged into our system before testing begins. Small delays can occur during busy periods or when additional verification is required. These steps ensure your sample is correctly matched and fully traceable.

Test Complexity and Specialist Analysis
Certain tests naturally take longer due to their complexity. This can include:

  Longer incubation or reaction times for specific biomarkers.
  Specialist equipment or confirmatory testing for accuracy.
  Multi-marker panels where the slowest element determines the overall turnaround.
  Samples that must be sent to referral laboratories for highly specialised testing, which adds postal time – especially around weekends or bank holidays.


Quality Control and Validation
Every result undergoes strict internal quality checks before release. If anything needs re-testing or cross-verification, it may extend processing times. This ensures all reports meet UKAS-accredited laboratory standards.

What Delays Mean for You
A longer turnaround doesn’t indicate any issue with your results. It reflects the detailed care taken to ensure accuracy, reliability, and full compliance with laboratory best practice.

In summary:
While our labs run continuously, test complexity, referral lab processing, postal schedules, and quality control measures can occasionally extend result times. These steps are essential to maintaining the highest standards of accuracy and confidence in your results.

Question 25

How will I understand my test results?

Accepted Answer

There are many things you can check for when health testing, and these results can give major insights into your body's health and function.

Taking a Vitall health test gives you unprecedented access to a level of detail previously only accessible to GPs.

But results are meaningless if you can't understand them!

 


 

When we developed our testing platform we realised that providing a test value alone like some labs do is simply not enough.

Where relevant we'll always show what is normal for people of your sex and age, and where your result falls within that range.  

Additionally, results often don't exist in isolation, and may need to be considered alongside other tests taken at the same time.

For out-of range, or abnormal results, it's really important to know what this may mean for your health, as well as any recommended follow up actions.

We combine all of this into a personalised report just for you, and our proprietary health system is as detailed and clear as possible. 

You can checkout a demo test report right here.

If you need any other details about your test results, please contact us.

Question 26

Why were my results reported as having a clotted sample?

Accepted Answer

Blood clots in sample tubes commonly occur when the sample has not mixed correctly with the  anti-clotting agent in the sample tube, or for it to have clotted during transit. It does not indicate any health problem or risk. 

This occurs occasionally due to the nature of biological specimens but it does mean that the analysis of your tests may not be possible. In this case, we are able to offer you a repeat test at no charge.

To help reduce the risk of clotting please take extra care to mix sample tube(s) thoroughly, but gently, after collection. The tubes need to be inverted at least 10 times to stop the entire clotting mechanism.

You should also ensure to take your sample between Monday to Thursday, then post on the same day in the prepaid mailbag included. This ensures the laboratory receive & process the freshest sample possible.

Question 27

Are my test results private & confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely. We guarantee complete discretion, we won't disclose your results to your GP, employer or insurers under any circumstances, unless compelled to by law.

Your data security is hugely important to us. We take strict measures to ensure result integrity with the minimum of data sharing.

We only share the essential details needed to conduct testing with our laboratory provider, and your email address to Trustpilot in the hope you leave a positive review. Please do!

We don't sell your personal data, individually or in aggregate. And you can request to wipe your account data at any time.

All samples are disposed of following analysis.

You can review our privacy policy here.

Question 28

Are the home test kits discreetly packaged?

Accepted Answer

Yes! All of the STI tests, health checks and blood test kits we sell are designed to fit through your letterbox. They will arrive in plain packaging with no distinguishing marks.

So you can take your test in complete privacy from the comfort of your own home.

Question 29

What is your privacy policy?

Accepted Answer

We take your privacy very seriously at Vitall.

We recognise just how sensitive and important your personal health information is, so we take rigorous measures to deliver integrity, security and confidentiality throughout our service.

Your personal information is only used to manage your account, keep you updated and to deliver the products and online testing services you require.

You can review our privacy policy in full here.

Question 30

Can I Check My Platelet Levels Before Taking a COVID-19 Vaccine?

Accepted Answer

If you want to measure your platelet levels then a Full Blood Count Test is the test required to do so.  The platelet count is measured along with the mean platelet volume. Platelets are vital for ensuring correct blood clotting (coagulation) and the mean platelet volume (MPV) test measures their average size and is closely related to the platelet count.

All of the parameters detailed on the test page, including platelet count, will be measured and compared against normal ranges for your age and gender, so anything out-of range will be clearly highlighted on your results report.

Question 31

Are finger-prick blood tests accurate?

Accepted Answer

The analysis of finger-prick blood samples (also known as capillary blood testing) is a well-established procedure, used widely in hospitals as a standard practice.

Not all tests are suitable for finger-prick testing at home though. Some require too much blood, with others the sample may not be stable in transit to the laboratory.

As such, every test we sell has been validated by the laboratory to ensure equivalent performance to a full-size venous blood sample. Your home blood test kit will include a specially designed 'mini' sample tube, optimised for low sample volumes, and to make the collection as easy as possible.

Additionally, developments in testing technology mean that multiple tests can often be run from a small sample simultaneously.

All testing activities are performed in UKAS accredited laboratories, with strict compliance requirements to ensure the highest quality testing possible.

Question 32

Can I Do a Potassium, Sodium, Chloride or Bicarbonate Test From Home?

Accepted Answer

Potassium, Sodium, Chloride and Bicarbonate are each a type of electrolyte, commonly tested as part of a kidney function test.

As they are very sensitive markers, they require analysis immediately post-collection, to ensure accurate results can be obtained.

A first in the UK, Vitall have addressed this by providing a mobile nursing service, which includes a nurse visiting your home to collect the sample and perform key pre-processing measures. This ensures the sample remains stable and fit for analysis when sent to the laboratory.

Alternatively, you can opt to have the analysis completed at the London Patient Reception, where all collection and pre-processing are done on-site for assured sample integrity.

To take this test please purchase the kidney function test here which includes a home-nursing visit.

Question 33

Is home testing fast and accurate?

Accepted Answer

Have you thought about what the most important thing is for your health testing? Do you want fast results or accurate ones? Ideally both, right?!

With many tests, it can be very tempting to choose the quickest result - but you absolutely must have confidence that the result you receive is correct.

Option 1: Disposable Self Tests



Single use cartridge tests (also called rapid-tests) can give an instant result for some simple tests. While they usually present as the cheaper option, their quality and regulatory approval is often questionable.

When opting for disposable tests at the very minimum check that they are:


	CE marked for in-vitro diagnostic use
	CE marked for self testing (not just health practitioners)


Note that rapid-tests are not recommended for critical tests (e.g. STIs), tests where multiple markers are assessed together (e.g. organ function) or when tests can have a range of values - not just a yes or no (e.g. most of them!).

Option 2: Professional Lab Tests



Sending a sample to a fully-automated laboratory analysis system is a big step up in terms of reliability, accuracy and quality. 

Modern analysers & reagents combine decades of global life science development - and they're connected to automated tracking systems for speed, consistency and to minimise errors.

Crucially, having medically qualified staff quality controlling all processes is the key to ensuring analytical reassurance. 

When opting for a lab test, you should always ensure that:


	Tests are CE marked for self-collection purposes
	Laboratories are UKAS Accredited
	Labs are staffed by medical healthcare practitioners


At Vitall we are firmly in camp two, providing self-collection test kits for professional clinical lab analysis. We're adamant that this is the best way to deliver accuracy.

But we know speed is important to you too! 

Fortunately advances in automation mean results can still be delivered very quickly. And with results sent to you securely online, that piece is fast too.

Question 34

Is this the same as visiting my GP?

Accepted Answer

All of the STI tests, health checks, and blood testing services we provide use the same level of analytical quality as those used by GPs and hospitals.

Testing from home provides a convenient means of providing reassurance, highlighting concerns, or monitoring existing conditions.

However, health testing from home is not intended to replace the need to visit your GP, or provide medical advice.

If you have symptoms or concerns, please ensure to discuss with your doctor so your clinical presentation and patient history can also be considered. This is essential for all home testing services, not just those offered by Vitall.

Question 35

What medical professionals are involved in test analysis?

Accepted Answer

All STI testing, Health Checks, and blood test analysis is conducted entirely by trained biomedical scientists and other healthcare professionals in a UKAS and CPA accredited laboratory.

As a medically-led laboratory, a team of up to 16 consultant doctors are responsible for laboratory clinical governance.

Once test analysis has been completed to these high standards, your results are processed and a personalised report created for you online. Your report clearly explains your test results in detail.

Question 36

What test kit is right for me?

Accepted Answer

We know health testing can be complex, and it can be hard to know exactly what tests are the most suitable for you. 

So to help with this we recently launched an online selection tool to help guide you through your testing options.

It's the most comprehensive on the market, results are personalised to you and you can access it completely confidentially here:

We think you'll find it useful but if you still have questions, need a particular test or you're simply unsure, then please feel free to contact us with any questions.

How Can We Help?

Sample Collection FAQ