Understanding routine lab tests: What you need to know for your overall health
Medically reviewed by Dr. Betsy Koickel, MD on August 12th, 2025.
When you visit your healthcare provider for an annual checkup or wellness visit, they may want to run a few lab tests. These are typically called routine lab tests, and they help your provider identify any potential concerns that require further evaluation.
What are routine lab tests, how do they play a role in overall health monitoring, and what can you expect from these tests?
What is a routine lab test?
Routine lab tests are blood or urine tests that help monitor your overall health and identify any potential issues. Most healthcare providers will request these tests annually to check your overall health or help manage any chronic conditions.
The standard lab tests measure different parts of the blood, such as red or white blood cells, hemoglobin or platelets. These values can help evaluate organ function and identify diseases like anemia or infections.
A routine lab test also includes metabolic tests, such as blood glucose or cholesterol, to help maintain an ongoing baseline for these values. Urine tests may also be included to evaluate kidney function or screen for urinary tract infections.
Common routine lab tests explained
Routine tests requested by your provider may vary slightly from person to person, but there are a few that are most common. These include the following:
Complete blood count (CBC)
A CBC test measures different components of blood. This may include red and white blood cells, hemoglobin and platelets. This type of test will help your provider identify anemia, blood disorders, infections and overall health.
Metabolic panels
Depending on your health history, your healthcare provider may order a basic (BMP) or comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP). This measures metabolism-related values, such as glucose, electrolytes, protein levels and liver and kidney function. The main difference between a BMP and a CMP is how many tests are included; a BMP includes eight tests, whereas a CMP includes 14.
Hemoglobin A1C (HgA1C)
A hemoglobin A1C test measures the average blood sugar over the last three months by identifying how much sugar is stuck to hemoglobin molecules. It is a standard screening for prediabetes or diabetes.
Lipid panel
A lipid panel measures all types of cholesterol in the blood. This can include total cholesterol, HDL, LDL and triglycerides. Even if you don’t currently have high cholesterol, it is important to track trends over time so your provider can recommend early interventions if needed.
Urinalysis
A urinalysis is a urine test used to evaluate the chemical and microscopic content of the urine. It can help screen for infections, kidney function or diabetes.
Other tests
Your provider may request additional tests depending on your age, sex or health conditions. These may include thyroid screenings, prostate tests and vitamin or hormone levels. Speak to your provider about what additional tests you might need.
How lab tests contribute to your health journey
Routine lab tests are a great way to identify potential health problems early, which is why they are included in most annual physicals. They can help you take action before an illness develops by changing your lifestyle or addressing issues affecting your health. Tracking changes over time can help your provider make more informed decisions about your health and treatment.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about lab tests and health monitoring.
What if my lab test result is abnormal?
If a lab test result is abnormal, your provider will determine if further evaluation or tests are needed. Lab tests can be abnormal for a variety of reasons; it is not always an indication of an illness.
How often are routine lab tests needed?
Typically, for healthy adults, routine lab tests are performed once a year at an annual physical. If you have a medical condition, your provider may request tests more often.
Do all lab tests require fasting?
No, not all lab tests require fasting. Typically, the only tests that require fasting are glucose and cholesterol screening. Ask your provider if you are not sure if you need to fast.
What is a "complete lab test?”
The term “complete” lab test typically refers to the standard screenings like CBC, lipid panel and metabolic panels.
What is the difference between screening and diagnostic lab tests?
Screening tests are preventative tests that look for concerns before they appear. Diagnostic tests are used to confirm or rule out health conditions based on existing symptoms.
Are there risks with routine lab tests?
Risks related to lab tests are mild, usually bruising or dizziness after the blood draw. Serious complications are rare.
References:
