Home Test - €149

As a laya healthcare member you may be entitled to claim some or all of the cost of your home test kits (subject to your outpatient excess). Simply log onto your dedicated Member Area on layahealthcare.ie and check under everyday medical expenses.

Heart disease and stroke are the cause of 50% or more of all deaths in Ireland. The three principal factors involved in causing these diseases are tobacco smoking, high blood pressure and high blood fats (or cholesterol).

This home test kit will be given a lipid profile, which measures your blood cholesterol levels and triglycerides, and a liver function test. These tests are related, as the liver is the primary producer of cholesterol, and elevated cholesterol levels negatively impact the health of your liver. Knowing your blood cholesterol and liver function levels can help you understand whether or not you are at risk of heart or liver disease. 

Fortunately, elevated levels of cholesterol can be lowered by both dietary change and medication. Taking action early can help ensure a healthier future. 

Click the button to order your Cholesterol Test and Liver Function Test today.

Which gender is the test for?

Both females and males can take this test.

What is this test for?

Firstly, the measure of the lipid profile reveals the level of cholesterol in your blood. The second test measures liver function. These tests can give you an indication of your heart and liver health, thus allowing you to take further action if necessary.

What is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a fatty substance which is present in every living cell of all of the tissues in the body. It is essential for life. However, high cholesterol can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke.

Why do this home kit?

The cholesterol test and liver function test are related, as the liver produces cholesterol, and elevated cholesterol levels can have an effect on liver function. Knowing your cholesterol level will indicate whether or not you need to take action to improve it. Measures can be taken to lower your cholesterol, which may also lower your risk of heart attack and stroke.

Additionally, if you have liver disease, have a family history of liver disease, or certain other risk factors (overweight, diabetes, high blood pressure, or heavy drinker), it is a good idea to regularly have a liver function test to monitor your health.

Who should have this test?

Anyone over the age of 30 years.

How are the tests done?

A single finger prick blood test is taken by you at home using the kit provided. Once you have posted the sample to the Lab, the blood is assayed for cholesterol level and liver function profile. These results will be given to you via careoncall.ie by an Irish-registered GP. 

How will I get the results?

The results will be delivered to your confidential medical file on the careoncall.ie website. They will be assessed by one of our Irish-registered GPs, and if further action is required, you will be advised as to what the next steps are.

What if my results indicate a health issue?

The GP takes into consideration the questionnaire you filled out with your medical history, as well as your test results, before advising you on further action. However, if your liver test results are elevated, you will likely be advised to repeat the test in 3-4 months. If the results are twice the upper limit of the normal range, you will be advised to repeat the test in 3-4 weeks. If your results are continually elevated or a rising trend is noted, you will likely be referred on to a specialist. 

If your lipid profile reveals high cholesterol, you will likely be scheduled for a repeat test after a period of time, as well as advised to change certain dietary habits. You may also be issued medication. Again, your GP will take into consideration your medical history with your test results before advising further steps.