Priority Testing & Result Notification

STAT Tests

STAT testing is routinely available for selected tests as listed below. We perform other tests STAT on a case-by-case basis with approval by the on-call pathologist. To reach the on-call pathologist, call Client Services at 505.938.8922 or 800.245.3296.

Tests on TriCore’s STAT List will be performed immediately upon receipt of the specimen at our testing facility.

Testing services for TriCore’s full STAT List are available through our main laboratory in Albuquerque. Limited STAT testing is available at some branch laboratories. To request STAT testing, please check the STAT box in the Priority section of your TriCore requisition or write the request in on the requisition and provide your telephone number.

Note: STAT testing should not be ordered when only a STAT pick-up is needed. To order a STAT pick-up, contact your courier and write “STAT Pick-up Only” on the requisition. Please do not check the “STAT” box on the requisition.

ASAP Tests

TriCore expedites testing for specimens with ASAP status. ASAP handling is available for tests performed in-house by TriCore. To request this handling, check the ASAP box in the Priority section of your TriCore requisition.

Call Tests

When Call status is requested, TriCore provides test results by phone in addition to the normal hard-copy or electronic format. Results are called until 10 p.m. This type of handling is available for all tests offered by TriCore. Please check the Call box in the Priority section of your TriCore requisition and provide your phone number in the space provided.

Reporting of Critical Action Values

TriCore classifies as Critical Action Values those abnormal laboratory test results that fall in ranges considered critical or requiring immediate attention. We report these results by telephone in addition to the normal hard-copy or electronic format. For physician offices or other healthcare practices with daytime business hours, we generally call results as soon as they become available (until midnight MT, per the expressed preference of many of our clients). Results that become available after midnight are called the next morning, though INR results greater than 8.0 will be called regardless of the time of day or night. For hospitals, nursing homes and other inpatient institutions, all Critical Action Values will be called 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

You may obtain a current list of TriCore’s Critical Action Values by calling Client Services at 505-938-8922 or toll-free at 800-245-3296.

TriCore can develop a custom protocol for Critical Action Values reporting for your practice by request. To request this custom protocol, please contact your Sales and Service representative at 505-938-8917 or 800-245-3296, Ext. 8917.

For more information, contact Client Services at 505-938-8922 or 800-245-3296.

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