Failure to undertake FT4 and FT3 tests were the highest at 10% and 14% respectively;
NHS GPs stated that the laboratories would not undertake the tests to 22% of respondents for FT4 tests, 29% for FT3 test and 29% for reverse T3 (rT3) tests;
Laboratories did undertake tests for TSH, RT3 and DIO2 for NHS endocrinologists but failed to undertake tests ordered by them 10% of the time for FT3; 3% for FT4 and 2% for TPO and TgAb;
Endocrinologists stated that laboratories would not undertake testing to 4% - 23% of respondents with RT3, FT3 and FT4 at 23%, 17% and 12% respectively.vThyroid UK. (2015) Survey report: hypothyroid patient experiences, pages 8-9
In response to these results, Thyroid UK made a recommendation that laboratories should not refuse testing requested by a clinician.vThyroid UK. (2015) Survey report: hypothyroid patient experiences, page 12
The Scottish Government responded to the survey results, noting:
Laboratories usually undertake what is requested of them, but sometimes it is helpful for them to guide clinicians, as they are experts in the field of testing, and can help as to what extra...