The NHS defines target turnaround times (TATs), which define expectations for the time between a test being initiated in our labs and return of results to clinicians.
Target TATs for genetic testing range from 3 to 84 days depending on the disease context, urgency, type of test required and associated test methodology.
Find out more about target TATs including examples for each category.
We aim to report results in line with the target TATs. If we experience delays in our test pathways that may delay the timely return of results we aim to notify clinicians (register your details with us (opens in a new tab)) and share information on our updates webpage.
For further information about when to expect the results of a requested test, please contact our labs.
How results are returned to you
We send out clinical reports containing the results of testing via email using the information you provide when the test is requested.
For return of results, you should provide an email address with appropriate security protocols (ideally nhs.net, or equivalent) to ensure the safety of sensitive information. We also encourage you to select a departmental, rather than individual, inbox so that results can be actioned rapidly within your team.
Results sent to networks that do not have appropriate security will be encrypted to protect patient confidentiality.