I recently got tested for HIV serology at a Lifelabs in Toronto using a requisition given to me by a doctor that did not include my name, health card info or anything identifying for that matter because we had specifically agreed that I prefer this test being anonymous. The Lifelabs I went to told me they would "forward the results to my doctor". I called the clinic today to check if my results had come back in; they told me that the results had indeed come back though they (the front desk) do not have access to result itself (be it positive or negative) and that I would need to refer to the doctor. Is this usual? Protocol for anonymous testing?

Home / Answered Questions / I recently got tested for HIV serology at a Lifelabs in Toronto using a requisition given to me by a doctor that did not include my name, health card info or anything identifying for that matter because we had specifically agreed that I prefer this test being anonymous. The Lifelabs I went to told me they would “forward the results to my doctor”. I called the clinic today to check if my results had come back in; they told me that the results had indeed come back though they (the front desk) do not have access to result itself (be it positive or negative) and that I would need to refer to the doctor. Is this usual? Protocol for anonymous testing?

I recently got tested for HIV serology at a Lifelabs in Toronto using a requisition given to me by a doctor that did not include my name, health card info or anything identifying for that matter because we had specifically agreed that I prefer this test being anonymous. The Lifelabs I went to told me they would “forward the results to my doctor”. I called the clinic today to check if my results had come back in; they told me that the results had indeed come back though they (the front desk) do not have access to result itself (be it positive or negative) and that I would need to refer to the doctor. Is this usual? Protocol for anonymous testing?

Hi, and thank you for your question

I cannot speak specifically about the procedures set in place by your doctor or the clinic that you went to in Toronto. However, I can say that accessing test results from a doctor often requires you to book an appointment to see the doctor and go over the results in person.

Usually, when testing anonymously, there is a code or ID number assigned to the individual, which will link the results to you. If you were provided with such a code, then you will need to give it to the doctor so he/she can access the right results.

Let us know if this does not answer your question or if you have any more questions or concerns.
Health Nurse

This answer was posted on January 13, 2020.

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