Are self-test health kits really worth it?

From vitamin deficiencies to bowel cancer, cholesterol to the menopause – there is now a huge variety of self-test health kits available to purchase over the counter and complete at home that claim to give you a valuable insight into your health. But how reliable are these tests and how do they compare to a traditional face-to-face appointment with a doctor?

Convenient or just confusing?

At-home health tests are growing in popularity and it’s easy to understand why. They offer quick results, convenience, accessibility, privacy and confidentiality. However, according to studies published in the British Medical Journal, many self-test health kits lack crucial information, such as who should use them, how to interpret the results and what steps to take next. This increases the risk of these tests providing inaccurate or misleading results, leading to unnecessary consequences or false reassurances.

Trust the experts

Whatever your health concern, your first port of call should always be a trusted medical professional. In many cases, even if a self-test health kit did provide an accurate result, it still wouldn’t tell the full picture.

Here at YourGP, we recognise the importance of thorough consultations. Our experienced doctors take time to understand what’s really going on with your health. We can carry out all the necessary tests and, depending on the nature of the test, can provide instant results or call or email the results to you as soon as they are sent from the lab.

We can then use the information gathered during the consultation, combined with the test results, to advise on the best course of action, and support you every step of the way.

Why choose YourGP?

• Short-notice, same day appointments available
• Quick turnaround of test results
• Two conveniently located city centre practices
• Open on Saturdays, plus extended opening hours on Thursdays
• Extended appointments to give you all the time you need to discuss your concerns in full

Book your appointment today

If you’ve got a health concern, our team are here to help you. All our tests are safe, reliable and effective, and we’re committed to keeping every patient fully informed. To book your appointment, use our simple online booking system, email reception@your.gp, or call us on 0131 225 5656 and we’ll be happy to arrange an appointment at a time that suits you.