Do I need to fast before blood work?

Only for certain tests. Your provider or the lab will tell you whether to fast and for how long. Ask when you book, and follow their instructions.

Can I drink water before a fasting blood test?

Plain water is often allowed, but instructions vary by test and lab. Confirm with your clinic.

Should I take my medications before a blood draw?

Usually yes, unless your provider tells you otherwise. Never stop a prescribed medication without medical advice.

How do I get my results?

Ask the clinic how results are shared, such as a phone call, portal or visit, and when to expect them. KEL Healthcare's website does not list a fixed turnaround time.

Is blood work available at KEL Healthcare's Brooklyn clinic?

The practice lists on-site lab work as part of diagnostic testing, but not every service is performed at every location. Call (718) 874-2832 to confirm for Brooklyn.

Fasting Before BloodworkBy Kel Healthcare TeamOctober 20, 2026Updated October 20, 2026

Blood Work and Lab Tests in Brooklyn, NY: How to Prepare

Getting blood work in Brooklyn, NY? Learn how to prepare, whether you need to fast, which panels are common, and how to make sense of your results.

Bloodwork Bloodwork Results Diagnostic Testing Diabetes Heart Health

Medically reviewed by Kel Healthcare Medical Team6 min read

Illustration of blood sample tubes in a rack with a clipboard, a water glass and a clock for test preparation

Introduction

Blood work is one of the most common ways doctors check your health, yet many people arrive unsure whether they should have eaten, which medications to take, or what the results will mean. A little preparation makes the draw easier and the results more reliable.

This guide covers how to prepare for lab tests in Brooklyn, NY, which panels are common, and how to follow up on your results. For a wider look at available tests, see our overview of diagnostic testing in Brooklyn.

Before Your Blood Draw

Follow these steps for a smooth visit:

Ask your provider whether you need to fast. Some tests, such as certain cholesterol and blood sugar tests, may require it, and others do not.
If you are told to fast, follow the instructions you were given about how long, and ask whether plain water is allowed.
Take your medications as directed unless your provider tells you otherwise. Never stop a medication on your own.
Drink water unless you are instructed not to, since good hydration can make a draw easier.
Bring your photo ID, insurance card and a list of medications and supplements.
Wear a short-sleeved shirt or sleeves that roll up easily.

Common Blood Panels and What They Check

Panel	What it looks at
Complete blood count	Red cells, white cells and platelets, which can point to anemia or infection
Metabolic panel	Blood sugar, electrolytes, kidney and liver function
Lipid panel	Cholesterol and triglycerides that relate to heart risk
HbA1c	Average blood sugar over recent months, used for diabetes screening and monitoring
Thyroid tests	How well your thyroid is working
Vitamin levels	Deficiencies, such as vitamin D or B12, that can cause fatigue

Which panels you need depends on your age, symptoms and risk factors. The CDC has background on cholesterol and diabetes, and MedlinePlus explains many medical tests in plain language.

Where to Get Lab Tests Near Brooklyn

Your options include a lab ordered through your provider, a hospital lab, or a practice that draws blood on site. KEL Healthcare's website lists on-site lab work as part of its diagnostic testing service, and describes same-day draws at its Woodside clinic when appropriate. For the Brooklyn clinic at 1530 Bedford Avenue, the location page notes that not every diagnostic service is performed at every location, so call (718) 874-2832 to find out whether your draw can be done there or will be arranged elsewhere.

After the Draw: Understanding Results

Ask how and when you will receive your results.
Remember that reference ranges can vary between labs.
One out-of-range value does not always mean disease, and your provider will interpret it alongside your history.
Ask what any abnormal result means and whether you need repeat testing or a referral.
Keep copies of your results so future providers can compare them.

Our guide to understanding your diagnostic testing results walks through how to read a report. If your results point to an ongoing condition, our chronic disease management team can help you build a plan.

Costs and Coverage

Ask whether the lab that processes your sample is in-network for your plan, because the practice and the lab can bill separately. Compare coverage options on NY State of Health, or use Medicare Care Compare if you have Medicare. KEL Healthcare says it verifies insurance coverage before your visit.

Conclusion

Good preparation is simple: ask about fasting, take medications as directed, bring your documents and plan to review results with your provider. That is the best way to get answers you can act on.

To schedule a visit with KEL Healthcare's Brooklyn clinic, call (718) 874-2832 or book an appointment. This article is for general information only and is not medical advice.