With reports of a lack of blood testing services operating in Redbridge, Nat Cato from Healthwatch Redbridge offers an overview of the options available to Wanstead residents
Due to patient feedback, we became aware of a lack of blood testing services operating in Redbridge. Healthwatch Redbridge have been liaising with Barking, Havering and Redbridge Clinical Commissioning Group (BHR CCG) regarding this matter.
Most tests must be booked in advance. The only exception is the Barts Health service at Forest Medical Centre in Loughton. Only patients who usually access the Wanstead or Whipps Cross sites should use Forest Medical Centre or Whipps Cross. Results are unavailable for patients who don’t usually use those services.
The walk-in service at the Heronwood and Galleon site in Wanstead reopened in late September for Redbridge patients only (8am to 1pm, Monday to Friday). Patients who usually use this site or Whipps Cross Hospital can also use any of the other sites across BHR.
BHR CCG has also told us appointments are now available at additional clinics across Redbridge. These clinics may be temporary, but appointments can be booked now, online or by telephone at South Woodford Health Centre, Hainault Health Centre or Seven Kings Health Centre.
If your GP tells you that you need to have a blood test, you must book in advance – don’t just turn up. This ensures infection control and social distancing guidance can be followed. Those aged under 12 can have blood tests using the children’s outpatients service at BHRUT. Your GP can refer you or you can call the paediatrics team at Queen’s Hospital for advice (01708 435 289). Housebound patients are also supported by NELFT’s domiciliary blood testing service, which is operated in line with infection control guidance. Referrals are made by GPs directly to the specialist service.
When going to an appointment, take your paper blood test form with you as this is needed to process your test.
Forest Medical Centre (walk-in service)
Only for patients who normally use the Wanstead and Whipps Cross sites.
Old Station Road, Loughton, IG10 4PE
No children under 10. Call 020 8535 6888
South Woodford Health Centre
114 High Road, South Woodford, E18 2QS
No children under 12. Call 0300 300 1704
Hainault Health Centre
Manford Way, Hainault, Essex IG7 4DF
No children under 12. Call 0300 555 1045
Seven Kings Health Centre
1 Salisbury Road, Seven Kings, IG3 8BG
No children under 12. Call 0300 300 1704
All phone lines operate office hours only.
Book online at wnstd.com/booktest
For more information on blood tests in Redbridge, visit wnstd.com/bloodtest
