Medical test results can sometimes feel like a foreign language—numbers, abbreviations, and ranges that seem hard to interpret.
Yet those numbers tell an important story about your health. At South Tabor Family Physicians (STFP), we believe understanding your results empowers you to make informed choices and stay proactive about your care.
Why Test Results Matter
Blood tests, imaging results, and screenings give your health care provider insight into how your body is functioning. Regular testing helps track trends over time—allowing your provider to catch potential issues early, even before symptoms appear. Knowing what your results mean can help you take meaningful steps toward better health.
Common Lab Tests and What They Tell You
1. Blood Pressure and Cholesterol – These numbers help assess your risk for heart disease. Your provider looks not only at total cholesterol but also LDL (“bad”) and HDL (“good”) levels.
2. Blood Glucose and A1C – These measure how your body manages sugar and are key for diagnosing or monitoring diabetes.
3. Thyroid Levels (TSH) – A check on your metabolism and hormone balance. Abnormal levels can cause fatigue, mood changes, or weight shifts.
4. Vitamin D and Iron – Common deficiencies can affect your energy and immune system.
5. Kidney and Liver Function Tests – Help ensure your organs are working properly—especially if you take medication long term.
How to Read and Discuss Your Results
Don’t worry if your results show something “out of range.” Not every variation is serious. Your provider reviews your full health picture—including age, history, and medications—before determining if action is needed. That’s why follow-up discussions are so important. STFP providers take time to explain results clearly and answer your questions.
Tips for Managing Your Results
– Keep copies of your results in one place.
– Bring questions to your next appointment.
– Use your results as motivation for healthy lifestyle changes.
– Don’t skip follow-up visits—some conditions improve best when monitored closely.
The STFP Approach
At South Tabor Family Physicians, our goal is to help you feel confident in your care. With on-site lab testing, same-day appointments, and a compassionate team of health care providers, we make it easier to get results and understand what they mean for your long-term health.
We’re conveniently located right off I-205 and are accepting new patients.
Call 503-261-7200 to schedule your next visit or get to know our providers here.
Helpful Resources
– American Heart Association – Understanding Blood Test Results
– MedlinePlus – How to Read Your Medical Tests
