Pathology results
When pathology items (blood tests etc) are requested, your doctor will generally indicate to you the procedure for obtaining the results. This may be by attending the surgery again or by phone. In many cases the doctor will authorise the receptionists to pass on information to you. The receptionists are not trained to interpret pathology results and will only be able to pass on information as given to them. Receptionists are bound by the same rules of confidentiality as doctors, but if you have any special concerns about the handling of pathology results tell your doctor. Results of sensitive tests such as HIV tests will not be given by phone and you must attend in person to receive the result.