Understanding Your Results
Waiting for test results can be stressful. Here's what to expect after your pathology tests or medical imaging, and what to do when your results are ready.
What Happens After Your Test?
Your results are sent to your doctor for review. Depending on the result, you may be contacted for follow-up or receive a notification that no further action is needed.
Your results arrive
Your pathology or imaging provider sends the results and report to your referring doctor.
Your doctor reviews them
Your GP reviews the results and determines whether any follow-up or further care is required.
You receive an update
You may be asked to book an appointment, or receive a notification that no further action is required.
Pathology Results
Our preferred pathology provider is Australian Clinical Labs (ACL), with an ACL collection room conveniently located on-site at Southern Doctors Clinic.
Most pathology results take around 2–5 business days to return. Some tests may take longer.
What should I do?
We encourage patients to arrange a follow-up appointment with their doctor to discuss their results. This can be either face-to-face or by telehealth, depending on your circumstances.
If your doctor determines that your results are normal and no further discussion is needed, you may receive an SMS or email advising that your result has been marked as “No Action”.
Imaging Results
Ultrasounds, X-rays, CT scans and other imaging studies can take a little longer to be finalised and reported.
How long do imaging results take?
Imaging results usually take around 2–7 days to return to the practice. Some reports may take longer depending on the type of investigation and the imaging provider.
What if I already have my images?
Some imaging centres provide patients with access to their images as soon as they are available. However, the formal report sent to your GP may not be completed at the same time.
Your result has been marked “No Action”
If your doctor has reviewed your result and does not need to discuss it with you or arrange further care, you may receive an SMS or email advising that your result has been marked as “No Action”.
What does this mean?
It means your doctor has reviewed the result and is happy that no follow-up appointment is required at this time.
What If I Am Recalled?
If your doctor believes your result needs further discussion, investigation or treatment, you may receive a recall asking you to make a follow-up appointment.
Please don't ignore a recall
A recall does not necessarily mean that something is seriously wrong. It simply means your doctor would like to discuss the result with you or arrange appropriate follow-up care.
Questions About Testing Fees?
Testing fees are set by the pathology or imaging provider, rather than Southern Doctors Clinic.
While our team can try to provide general information, we recommend contacting the pathology or imaging centre directly to confirm any fees before your test.
The contact details for your provider are usually included on your referral.
Can I Get a Copy of My Results?
Our reception team can provide copies of results in certain circumstances to help you access your health information.
When can I request my results?
We can provide a copy if you have already discussed the result with your GP, or if your result has been reviewed by your GP and marked as “No Action”.
What if I've been recalled?
If you have been recalled and have not yet discussed the result with your GP, our reception team cannot provide a copy of the result. Please arrange the recommended follow-up appointment first.
Need to Discuss Your Results?
If you've been asked to follow up with your doctor, you can book a face-to-face or telehealth appointment with your GP.
Book an Appointment Call Reception