We're sorry to hear you're having difficulty collecting your blood sample — you're not alone. Finger-prick collection isn’t always straightforward, and we’re here to help you move forward.
Option 1: Try again with a new finger-prick test kit
If your sample is insufficient, it’s likely to be rejected by the lab. We’re happy to send you a new finger-prick test kit free of charge so you can try again.
To increase your chances of a successful collection, here are a few tips:
- Stay hydrated in the days prior testing and drink water 30 minutes before collecting your sample.
- Warm your hands thoroughly before using the lancet.
- Do some light exercise beforehand to help get your blood flowing.
- Follow our step-by-step guide: 👉 How to Take a Finger-Prick Blood Sample : https://www.selph.co.uk/learn/testing/how-do-i-take-a-finger-prick-blood-test
Option 2: Switch to a Venous Blood Draw
If you’d prefer not to use the finger-prick method again, we can switch you to a venous blood draw (from your arm), either at a clinic or at your chosen location
Clinic Appointment (£35)
We’ve partnered with Superdrug and Tuli Clinics to offer affordable and convenient venous draw appointments across the UK.
- Find your nearest clinic: selph.co.uk/partners/clinics
- If you’d like to go ahead with this option, please email us confirming the clinic you’d like to attend.
- We’ll then send you a secure payment link and booking instructions.
Mobile Phlebotomy (£70)
We can also arrange for a qualified nurse to come to your home or chosen location to take your sample. If you’d like to book this, just let us know and we’ll get it arranged.
If you already know someone qualified to draw blood, we can send you a venous draw test kit and you can arrange the collection privately.