DiscountedLabs

DiscountedLabs: blood and hormone testing without a doctor's visit in the United States

DiscountedLabs is a U.S. clinical testing service that allows users to order blood and hormone tests online without needing to see a doctor first or have health insurance. The company states that its own doctor issues the lab order and that orders are placed through its 24-hour test menu.

The process has three steps: the customer orders the test, visits a nearby lab, and receives the results. The company says it has more than 2,200 locations in the United States and notes that results are usually available within 2 to 7 business days, although for sensitive hormone tests performed using liquid chromatography or mass spectrometry (LC/MS) the timeframe may extend to 5-10 business days. Results are sent by email and SMS and can be downloaded from the user's account.

Geographic coverage and partner labs

The site lists the states where it operates: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa (Des Moines), Kansas, Kentucky (Louisville and Lexington), Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana (Great Falls), Nebraska (Omaha and Lincoln), Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Carolina, Ohio (Cleveland and Akron), Oklahoma (OKC), Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah (Salt Lake City), Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. The company states that it does not serve New Jersey, New York, and Rhode Island.

The company reports more than 1,900 draw sites nationwide, although elsewhere on the site it mentions more than 2,200 locations. The user must bring a photo ID and the booking code.

Test catalog

The catalog includes hormone tests, tuberculosis tests, panels specifically for bodybuilders, and cardiovascular assessments. Featured tests include:

• Total testosterone (MS) and free testosterone (equilibrium dialysis).
• Ultrasensitive estradiol.
• Pre-TRT male hormone and wellness panel.
• TRT hormone and wellness follow-up panel.
• Women's hormone panel.
• TRT basic panel.
• Quantiferon Gold Plus TB.
• Complete blood count (CBC), comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), and lipids.
• PSA.
• Cardio IQ Advanced Lipid Panel.
• Bodybuilder blood test panels.

The company notes that it uses sensitive LC/MS assays for hormone tests and that it has designed specific panels for different health conditions.

Pricing, payment, and rewards program

DiscountedLabs states that its prices include the doctor's fee and that it does not charge hidden fees. It does not process health insurance, but claims that its rates are often lower than the customer's copay. During the purchase process, a $10 lab draw fee is indicated. The company says it offers discounts of up to 80% off retail prices.

Payment is made by credit card. The company has a points program: every purchase earns points redeemable on future orders, and new users receive $75 in credits ($15 off the first order and four additional $15 credits for future orders), valid for 7 years and applicable to any test. It also offers 20% off to those who subscribe to the newsletter and share their primary goal (optimize hormones, build muscle, burn fat, or improve health).

How ordering works and customer service

Orders are placed online: the user finds a nearby lab, selects tests, applies coupons if available, creates an account with name, address, sex, and date of birth, and pays. After purchase, they receive three emails: one confirmation and others with instructions to download the lab requisition form. Although walk-ins are accepted, the company recommends making an appointment to reduce waiting times.

The lab order never expires. If the form expires, the company resends it at no cost, unless the test price has changed since purchase. Customer service is available by email, contact form, 24-hour phone service, and automated chat. The call center is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time.

Track record and confidentiality

The company reports more than 12 years in operation and more than 24,000 customers served. Elsewhere on the site, it refers to nine years of commitment to FDA-approved lab tests at competitive prices. It states that it complies with HIPAA and guarantees the confidentiality of results. It also maintains a blog with educational articles and videos about lab tests and their interpretation, as well as a resources page with free books and consumer forums.