Your Blood Tests Might Be “Normal”—But Are They Optimal?
Would you like to get more out of your pathology? Then read on!
Pathology is an incredible investigative tool—used by around 60% of Australians each year. Between 2020 and 2021 alone, there were a whopping 150.9 million pathology services performed. (Note: this refers to services, not individual tests—multiple tests can be done from a single blood draw.)
Your pathology results can be a goldmine of information, but to get the most out of them, it all starts with preparing correctly.
How to Prepare for Your Blood Tests
These are general recommendations. Please consult with your healthcare team to find out what’s appropriate for your specific case or the tests you’re having done:
FAST (nothing except water) for at least 8 hours and no more than 12 hours—e.g. overnight fasting.
REST beforehand. Exercise within 72 hours before testing can shift your results.
HYDRATE well—drink 1–2 glasses of water in the hours before your blood draw.
PAUSE SUPPLEMENTS for at least 3 days before testing unless advised otherwise by your practitioner. (Important: do not stop any prescribed medications unless instructed by your doctor or specialist.)
WAIT IF NEEDED—if you’ve recently had major stress, trauma, a night out, acute infection, recreational drugs, or high alcohol intake, consider delaying your test.
ASK QUESTIONS—some tests are best done at specific times (e.g. a female hormone panel is ideally done between days 2–5 of your cycle).
Medicare Criteria for Pathology
Be aware that Medicare sets criteria for bulk-billed pathology. If your case doesn’t meet the criteria, those tests won’t be covered. You may still be able to access them by paying privately. Discuss your options with your healthcare team.
Understanding Your Results
Typically, your GP will review your pathology with you. In some cases, they may only follow up if there are results outside the reference range. You can:
Request a printed copy for your own records
Or access your results online through My Health Record via myGov (if activated)
Why “Normal” Results Don’t Always Mean “Optimal”
Many people experiencing chronic symptoms feel disheartened when their bloodwork appears “normal.” Some of the reasons for this include:
Poor test preparation affecting the accuracy of results
Reference ranges being based on population averages—not necessarily what’s optimal for you
Low-normal or high-normal results being technically in range but still clinically significant
A Naturopathic Take on Pathology Evaluation
While your GP typically evaluates your pathology, other qualified practitioners—such as naturopaths and nutritionists—can provide valuable insights too.
Personally, I love interpreting pathology. I’m am undertaking ongoing further professional development to deepen my research-based understanding in this area. I look for:
Subtle trends and changes over time
Low- and high-normal results that may need attention
Individualised reference ranges based on your age, sex, health history, and symptoms
Patterns across several years (if records are available) to understand your personal “norms”
This kind of collaborative care can help you get the most out of your pathology and your health journey. I work alongside your GP and any other health professionals to support your best outcomes.
Ready to Unlock the Goldmine in Your Pathology?
Book in for a consult—I’d love to help you uncover what your bloodwork is really telling you.
Medical Disclaimer: none of the above is a substitute for consultation, diagnosis, supplementing advice, or medical treatment by your doctor. See your doctor and/or other health professionals before changing anything in your lifestyle, diet, or supplement/medical habits.
Blog Author: Talitha
I specialise in gut health (IBS, IBD, microbiome testing), women's health (preconception, fertility, hormone balance), and mental health (depression, stress, anxiety). I am a degree- qualified naturopath who LOVES helping people transform their health stories!!
