We rely on both routine blood and urine labs, as well as specialized labs to help identify underlying medical problems. For most tests, we send you to Sonora Quest, LabCorp, or another commercial lab.
Most hormone testing can be completed through a commercial laboratory; however, we may recommend using a private laboratory when the results may be more accurate. For example, testing for cortisol (the "stress" hormone) is best done with four-time saliva samples. This provides a pattern of the hormone in your system. Most commercial labs use blood at whatever time the sample was collected. Other hormones may also be more accurately measured at a speciality lab.
Some offices perform skin prick testing of seasonal allergies, and the results are very accurate. However, that is not the best way to assess food allergies. We have testing options with several certified labs for hundreds of potential food allergens.
Like any doctor, we rely on imaging to help assess some medical concerns. We refer patients to commercial imaging center such as SimonMed and Banner Imaging. If you have a preference, let us know.