Going Over Lab Results by Video: How to Make the Most of a Follow-Up Visit

You get a notification that your lab results are ready. You open your patient portal and see a long list of numbers, abbreviations, and a few values flagged in red. It’s natural to feel anxious or confused. A short telemedicine visit is one of the most convenient ways to walk through your results with your doctor and understand what they actually mean.

Why Video Visits Work Well for Lab Reviews

Reviewing results is mostly a conversation. Your doctor explains the numbers, how they compare to your past results, what they mean for your health, and what comes next. There’s usually no need for a physical exam, which makes a video visit a natural fit. You save the drive and the waiting room, and you can still see your doctor face to face.

Before Your Visit

• Look at your results in the portal, if they’re available, and jot down which ones concern you.
• Write down your questions. It’s easy to forget them once the conversation starts.
• Have your medication list handy, including supplements, since many can affect lab results.
• Note any symptoms you’ve had since your last visit.
• If you track blood pressure, blood sugar, or weight at home, have those numbers ready to share.

Questions Worth Asking

• Which results are normal, and which ones need attention?
• How do these numbers compare with my previous results?
• Is a slightly abnormal result something to worry about, or expected for me?
• Do I need to change any medications?
• What lifestyle changes would make the biggest difference?
• When should I repeat these tests?
• What symptoms should prompt me to call before then?

Understanding “Out of Range” Results

A result outside the reference range doesn’t always mean something is wrong. Reference ranges are based on large groups of people, and many factors can shift results temporarily, such as recent meals, hydration, exercise, illness, or medications. Your doctor looks at the overall pattern, your history, and how results are trending over time. That context is something a portal can’t give you.

Common Labs Your Doctor May Review

• Cholesterol panel for heart health
• Hemoglobin A1C and glucose for blood sugar
• Kidney function markers like creatinine and eGFR
• Liver function tests
• Thyroid tests
• Complete blood count (CBC) for anemia and blood cell levels
• Vitamin levels like vitamin D and B12

When an In-Person Visit Makes More Sense

Sometimes results call for a physical exam, additional testing, or a more involved discussion. If that’s the case, your doctor will let you know and help schedule what you need. If you have new or worsening symptoms, an in-person visit may also be the better choice.

Turning Numbers Into a Plan

Lab results are most helpful when they lead to action. A good follow-up visit should leave you knowing what your numbers mean, what you’re doing next, and when you’ll check again. A quick video visit makes it easy to get there without rearranging your whole day.

This article is for general education and isn’t a substitute for medical advice. If you have symptoms that are severe, sudden, or worrying, call 911 or seek emergency care.