UT Health RGV
Clinical Laboratory

Frequently Asked Questions

• Do I need to schedule an appointment for testing?

  No, patients do not need an appointment. Walk-Ins are welcome at the three locations.

• How do I get my lab results?

  Patients can access some results through the Patient Portal. Some results are delivered directly to the Patient Portal and can be accessed on your smartphone, tablet, or desktop. You will receive an email notification when your results are ready. However, some results will be provided to the patient from their Provider. Providers can access the result through a Provider web portal.

• Do I need to be referred by a physician to get a lab test?

  A referral or medical provider laboratory order may be required for certain testing. There is some laboratory testing that can be performed without a medical provider. Please check with your insurance provider and the laboratory for specific test.

• Is lab testing available to the public?

  Yes, lab testing is available to the RGV community and patients of UT Health RGV.

• Will I be able to share my lab test results with my health care provider?

  Yes, we strongly recommend that you share your test results with your doctor in order to make the best health decisions.

• Will my insurance cover lab testing?

  Lab testing is covered by all major insurance companies, including Medicare and Medicaid. Please check with your insurance provider. If UT Health RGV Clinical Laboratory needs to outsource laboratory work, patients may receive a separate bill from a non-UT Health RGV laboratory provider.

• Do lab results vary by exam?

  Your lab test results will be delivered to the Patient Portal as soon as they are available. If you have a lab test result that requires prompt attention, it will be communicated to you by a UT Health RGV provider before being sent directly to your Patient Portal account. Additionally, you will receive an email message when your lab test results are available. In all circumstances, and in accordance with HIPAA requirements, you will receive your lab test results from us as soon as they are available, and no later than 30 days from the date of your request.

• Must I have a Patient Portal Account to view my lab results?

  We need to be able to deliver your lab test results to you securely. As part of the lab testing process, you will need to Create a Patient Portal Account. If you don’t already have one, you will need to create one with your personal email.

• How do I know what my lab results mean?

  UT Health RGV Clinical Laboratory provides test result information and links to external information sources, along with your lab test result, in the Patient Portal. Patients also have the opportunity to speak with a UT Health RGV physician (if you have more questions). UT Health RGV recommends you to share your results with your doctor in order to make the best decisions for your health.