Laboratory Testing Services in Honolulu, Hawaii

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is included in a laboratory test?

  At Honolulu Urgent Care, laboratory tests vary depending on what your provider is checking for. A typical lab test includes:

  • Sample collection (blood, urine, swab, or saliva)
    
  • Testing the sample in our certified, in-house medical laboratory
    
  • Analyzing results to check for infections, organ function, or other health concerns
    
  • Clear explanation of results from your provider
    

  For example, a blood test might include:

  1. Checking red and white blood cell counts
     
  2. Measuring glucose and cholesterol
     
  3. Screening for infections or inflammation
     

  Each test is ordered with a purpose. Whether it’s for travel, routine screening, or diagnosing a specific issue, we’re here to help you understand what’s being tested and why it matters.

• What are the three types of lab testing?

  We typically divide laboratory testing into three main types, depending on what’s being evaluated:

  1. Clinical Chemistry Tests
     
     • Measures substances in body fluids (e.g., blood sugar, liver enzymes)
       
     • Includes metabolic panels and kidney function tests
       
  2. Hematology Tests
     
     • Focuses on blood and bone marrow
       
     • Includes CBC (Complete Blood Count), clotting tests, and anemia screening
       
  3. Microbiology and Infectious Disease Tests
     
     • Detects bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens
       
     • Includes COVID-19 testing, strep tests, STD panels, and flu testing
       

  These types help doctors get a full picture of your health and make informed treatment decisions. All three are performed in our nationally certified on-site lab.

• What is the most common lab test?

  One of the most common lab tests we perform at Honolulu Urgent Care is the Complete Blood Count (CBC). It’s a quick, reliable test that checks:

  • Red blood cells (oxygen transport)
    
  • White blood cells (immune health)
    
  • Platelets (blood clotting)
    
  • Hemoglobin and hematocrit (blood quality)
    

  A CBC is often ordered when patients experience symptoms like:

  • Fatigue
    
  • Fever
    
  • Infections
    
  • Weakness or bruising
    

  It’s also useful as part of regular health screening or before certain medical procedures. Since it can detect many conditions early, it’s a powerful tool in preventive care.

• What are three phases of laboratory testing?

  Laboratory testing is more than just drawing blood—it’s a careful process involving three distinct phases:

  1. Pre-analytical Phase
     
     • Collecting the right sample (blood, urine, swab, etc.)
       
     • Labeling and preparing it correctly
       
     • Making sure it’s stored and handled properly
       
  2. Analytical Phase
     
     • The actual testing in our certified lab
       
     • Using calibrated equipment and quality controls
       
     • Interpreting results accurately
       
  3. Post-analytical Phase
     
     • Reviewing results for clarity and precision
       
     • Sharing results with your provider
       
     • Using the results to guide your care
       

  Our walk-in clinic follows all safety and accuracy standards to ensure each phase is handled with care.

• How long does any lab test take?

  The timing depends on the type of test being done. At Honolulu Urgent Care, we aim for same-day results whenever possible. Here’s a general idea:

  • Rapid tests (COVID-19, strep, flu): 15–30 minutes
    
  • CBC and urinalysis: Usually ready within a few hours
    
  • STD testing or drug screening: 1–2 days depending on complexity
    
  • PCR testing: Same day or next day
    

  We use an on-site, CLIA-certified lab which helps speed things up. If a test needs to be sent to an outside lab, we’ll let you know the expected turnaround. Walk in anytime—we’ll help you get answers quickly.

Walk-In Lab Services with On-Site Diagnostics in Honolulu County