MediLeave Editorial Team. Medically reviewed by Dr Sabrina Campbell BSc MBBS MRCGP FRACGP MSc. Last reviewed on 5th May 2026.
Blood tests are one of the simplest and most effective ways to understand your health. They can help detect problems early, monitor existing conditions, and guide treatment decisions.
Whether you are feeling unwell or just due for a check-up, routine blood tests play an important role in preventative healthcare in Australia.
Routine blood tests are commonly requested by doctors to assess your overall health. They provide a snapshot of how different systems in your body are functioning.
They are typically:
Many conditions, including high cholesterol, diabetes, and early kidney disease, can develop without obvious symptoms. Blood tests help detect these changes early.
This test measures your red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It helps detect infections, anaemia, and other blood-related conditions.
This measures your cholesterol levels, including “good” and “bad” cholesterol. It is used to assess your risk of heart disease.
This checks your blood sugar levels and helps diagnose or monitor diabetes and pre-diabetes.
These assess how well your liver is working and can detect inflammation, fatty liver, or effects from medications or alcohol.
These measure how well your kidneys filter waste and maintain fluid balance. They are especially important for people with high blood pressure or diabetes.
These check hormone levels that regulate your metabolism, energy levels, and weight.
These assess your iron levels and stores, helping diagnose iron deficiency, which is a common cause of fatigue.
This measures vitamin D levels, which are important for bone health and immune function.
This test measures inflammation in the body and can indicate infection or chronic inflammatory conditions.
These measure key minerals such as sodium and potassium, which are essential for hydration and overall body function.
| Test Name | What it identifies | Why it’s needed | When to test |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Blood Count (FBC) | Measures red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. | Detects infections, anaemia, clotting disorders and some blood cancers. | General health checks or when symptoms suggest a blood disorder. |
| Lipid Profile (Cholesterol) | Total cholesterol, LDL, HDL and triglycerides. | Assesses cardiovascular risk and informs treatment. | Every 4–5 years for healthy adults; more often for high-risk groups. |
| Blood Glucose (Fasting / HbA1c) | Measures blood sugar levels. | Diagnoses and monitors diabetes or pre-diabetes. | Every 3 years for adults over 40, or sooner if at risk. |
| Liver Function Test (LFTs) | Liver enzymes and proteins. | Detects liver disease, fatty liver, hepatitis or medication effects. | General check-ups or when liver issues are suspected. |
| Kidney Function Test (UECs) | Urea, electrolytes and creatinine. | Essential for those with high blood pressure, diabetes or kidney risk. | Every 1–2 years, or more often if kidney disease is suspected. |
| Thyroid Function Test (TFTs) | Thyroid hormones (TSH, T3, T4). | Diagnoses underactive or overactive thyroid. | If experiencing fatigue, weight changes or palpitations. |
| Iron Studies | Iron, ferritin and transferrin. | Diagnoses iron deficiency anaemia or iron overload. | If experiencing fatigue, dizziness or unexplained weakness. |
| Vitamin D Test | Vitamin D blood levels. | Important for bone health and immune function. | If at risk of deficiency due to lifestyle or medical conditions. |
| C-Reactive Protein (CRP) | Inflammation levels in the body. | Detects infection, autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions. | When signs of infection or inflammation are present. |
| Electrolyte Panel | Sodium, potassium and chloride. | Essential for hydration and overall health. | Often part of routine bloods or if dehydration is suspected. |
Routine blood tests are a key part of preventative health care. Even if you feel well, they can identify early signs of health conditions before symptoms develop.
They can help:
The frequency depends on your age, medical history, and risk factors.
As a general guide:
Getting a blood test is straightforward:
Most routine blood tests are covered by Medicare when medically necessary. Some specialised tests may involve an out-of-pocket cost.
Telehealth makes it easier to access blood tests without needing to attend a clinic in person.
With an online consultation, you can:
This allows you to manage your health more efficiently, especially if you have a busy schedule or limited access to in-person care.
You may benefit from a blood test if you:
If you are unsure, a doctor can guide you on whether testing is appropriate.
Before your test, you may want to ask:
Routine blood tests are a simple but powerful way to stay on top of your health. They can provide early insight into potential issues and help you make informed decisions about your wellbeing.
If you have not had a blood test recently, it may be worth speaking with a doctor to see what is appropriate for you.
Need a blood test referral?
Speak with an Australian-registered doctor online and have your pathology referral sent directly to you. Telehealth makes it quick, convenient, and accessible wherever you are.
Disclaimer: The content provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional medical consultation. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. For emergencies please immediately contact 000. Any medical topics discussed are intended to educate only.
Call 000 or go to the nearest emergency department.
