When you're feeling unwell, finding the cause often begins with diagnostic testing in our state-of-the-art laboratory. At Grande Ronde Hospital (GRH), our laboratory services are an essential part of your healthcare journey, providing the critical information your healthcare provider needs to diagnose, treat and monitor your condition.
Expert Diagnostic Testing You Can Trust
Every year, our skilled and highly trained team of pathologists, scientists, technicians and phlebotomists perform over 130,000 tests. These tests are crucial in helping your healthcare providers make informed decisions about your care. In fact, our laboratory delivers approximately 80% of the diagnostic testing relied upon by our providers to ensure you receive the most accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
Comprehensive Laboratory Services
We offer a wide range of laboratory services, including:
Regional Pathology Laboratory Services: Expert analysis and timely diagnostic support to healthcare providers and patients in our region.
Clinical Laboratory Services: Comprehensive testing in various disciplines, including:
- Chemistry: Analysis of blood and body fluids to detect diseases and monitor treatment
- Hematology & Hemostasis: Evaluation of blood disorders and diseases
- Microbiology: Detection of infections caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites; determination of antimicrobial therapy
- Urinalysis & Body Fluid Analysis: Examination of urine and body fluids for signs of disease or infection
- Serology & Immunology: Testing for antibodies and antigens related to various conditions
- Transfusions: Determination of blood type and safe and effective blood transfusions
Reviewed 8/22/2025
Laboratory tests
True or false?
Laboratory tests help your doctor monitor your health and identify new issues as early as possible. But how much do you know about lab tests? Test your knowledge with this true or false quiz.
1. You only need a lab test if you are sick.
False. Laboratory tests are part of routine care. Lab tests can help your doctor identify changes in your overall health. One use of lab tests is to check cholesterol levels. Screening tests can also check whether you are at risk of developing a certain condition.
2. You shouldn't need any help understanding your lab results.
False. Every lab test is different. Some give you a positive or negative result. Others provide a number. The best person to talk to about your results is your doctor. They know you and your medical history and can help you better understand your results.
3. Lab tests are safe and accurate.
True. Laboratory tests go through a strict approval and regulation process to make sure they are safe. While they are also highly accurate, you can get inconclusive results in some cases. If that happens, your doctor may repeat the test or recommend a different one.
4. You may have to fast before a test.
True. Some lab tests require that you fast for 8 to 12 hours beforehand. You may have to avoid certain activities, foods or medications the day before. Always ask your doctor how you should prepare for any lab test.
5. There's no good way to deal with feelings of anxiety about a lab test.
False. Feeling anxious about a lab test is common. Thankfully, some simple tips can help you relax. Try deep breathing or counting silently to 10. You may also want to bring a friend or family member for support. Talking to someone during the test may also provide a helpful distraction.
Visit our Healthcare topic center to learn more about how to make the most of regular healthcare checkups.
Sources
- MedlinePlus. "Fasting for a Blood Test." https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/fasting-for-a-blood-test/.
- MedlinePlus. "How to Cope with Medical Test Anxiety." https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/how-to-cope-with-medical-test-anxiety/.
- MedlinePlus. "How to Prepare for a Lab Test." https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/how-to-prepare-for-a-lab-test/.
- MedlinePlus. "How to Understand Your Lab Results." https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/how-to-understand-your-lab-results/.
- MedlinePlus. "What You Need to Know About Blood Testing." https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/what-you-need-to-know-about-blood-testing/.
- National Cancer Institute. "How Cancer Is Diagnosed." https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/diagnosis-staging/diagnosis.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. "Tests Used in Clinical Care." https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/in-vitro-diagnostics/tests-used-clinical-care.