For some people, having a blood test is a straightforward part of healthcare. For others, it can be a significant source of anxiety.
Needle phobia, previous difficult experiences, hard-to-access veins or simply feeling overwhelmed in a busy pathology collection centre can make a routine blood test feel anything but routine.
At Clarendon Medical, we understand that sometimes you just need a little more time, patience and support.
Introducing Supported Blood Collection
Our Supported Blood Collection service is a dedicated 30-minute appointment for people who may benefit from a slower, more individualised approach to having their blood collected.
It may be particularly helpful if you:
- experience anxiety about blood tests;
- have a needle phobia;
- find attending traditional pathology collection centres difficult or overwhelming;
- have previously had an upsetting or difficult blood collection experience;
- have tricky or difficult-to-access veins; or
- have fragile or compromised veins and require additional time for collection.
Why an extended appointment?
Blood collection doesn’t always fit neatly into a five or ten-minute appointment.
An extended appointment gives our nurse time to understand your previous experiences, discuss what may help you feel more comfortable and approach the collection without unnecessary time pressure.
If you know that warming your arm helps, you need some extra time before starting, or you simply don’t want to feel rushed, please tell us. We want to work with you.
Our aim is not to promise that every blood collection will be easy or successful on the first attempt. Rather, it is to provide additional time, support and a calm environment for people who may need it.
Supported Blood Collection at Clarendon Medical
Appointment length: 30 minutes
Fee: $110
Please let our reception team know that you would like a Supported Blood Collection appointment when booking.
A note about children
Supported Blood Collection is available for adults and children aged 7 years and over.
For children under 7, we recommend contacting a specialist paediatric blood collection service, such as The Royal Children’s Hospital or Cabrini Hospital, where staff and facilities are specifically equipped to support younger children.
If you or someone you care for has been putting off an important blood test because of anxiety or previous difficulties, please speak with our team. A little extra time and support can make a meaningful difference.
