How to Book Lab Test in Nigeria: A Step-by-Step Guide

Access to medical diagnostics is an essential part of healthcare, and booking a laboratory test in Nigeria is now more convenient than ever, thanks to the growing adoption of digital health services. Whether you need a blood test, ultrasound scan, X-ray, urine analysis, or any other diagnostic procedure, you can now schedule and receive your results from the comfort of your home or workplace.
In this article, we will walk you through how to book a lab test in Nigeria, the options available, and how platforms like MyMedicalBank make the process seamless, fast, and accessible.
Why Lab Tests Are Important
Lab tests help doctors detect diseases early, monitor health conditions, and confirm diagnoses. From malaria and typhoid to blood sugar and cholesterol levels, tests provide critical insights that guide treatment decisions. Regular testing can be the difference between prevention and late diagnosis.
Common Types of Lab Tests
There are different kinds of lab tests and the type you will have will usually be determined by the objective to be achieved. Some types of tests are as follows:
1. Pre-Employment Tests
Employers often require these to assess the fitness and health status of candidates before hiring. Typical tests include:
- Full Blood Count (FBC)
- Hepatitis B and C Screening
- HIV Test
- Urinalysis
- Chest X-ray (for TB screening)
- Blood Pressure and ECG (for certain roles)
- Drug Screening (in security, aviation, and sensitive roles)
2. Pre-Wedding Tests
These are essential for intending couples to identify hereditary or infectious conditions that could affect marriage or children. Common pre-wedding tests include:
- Genotype (e.g., AA, AS, SS)
- Blood Group and Rhesus Factor
- HIV I & II
- Hepatitis B and C
- Syphilis (VDRL or RPR)
- Pregnancy Test (for females, optional)
- Fertility Hormone Profile (optional)
3. Travel-Related Tests
Travelers, especially international ones, may be required to undergo specific tests for visa, immigration, or public health purposes. Typical travel tests:
- Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate
- COVID-19 PCR Test
- Tuberculosis Screening (Chest X-ray or IGRA)
- Malaria Testing (for travel to or from endemic areas)
- Hepatitis B and C (required by some embassies)
- Urine Drug Screening (common in Gulf countries)
4. Sexual Health Tests
These tests are essential for sexually active individuals, those with multiple partners, or as part of routine reproductive health. Sexual health screenings may include:
- HIV Test
- Syphilis (VDRL)
- Hepatitis B and C
- Gonorrhea and Chlamydia (Urine/Swab Test)
- Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV I & II)
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV) for women
5. General Health Screening / Wellness Check
These are routine checkups to detect underlying or asymptomatic health conditions. Typical tests:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC)
- Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS)
- Lipid Profile (Cholesterol)
- Liver Function Test (LFT)
- Kidney Function Test (KFT)
- Blood Pressure & ECG
- Body Mass Index (BMI)
- Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) for men
- Pap Smear & Mammogram for women
6. Antenatal and Pregnancy Tests
Pregnant women require regular tests throughout pregnancy for their health and that of their unborn child. Important tests include:
- Pregnancy Test (e.g. Beta hCG)
- Blood Group and Rhesus Factor
- HIV and Hepatitis Screening
- Urinalysis
- Malaria Parasite Test
- Ultrasound Scans (1st, 2nd, and 3rd trimesters)
- Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT)
7. Chronic Disease Monitoring
For patients with ongoing conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or kidney disease. Regular tests may include:
- HbA1c (for diabetes)
- Kidney Function Test (Urea, Creatinine)
- Blood Pressure Monitoring
- Lipid Profile
- Electrolyte Levels (Sodium, Potassium)
- Liver Enzymes
8. Specialized/Advanced Tests
Depending on symptoms or referrals, doctors may request:
- Tumor Markers (PSA, CA-125, AFP, etc.)
- Hormonal Assays (FSH, LH, TSH, Prolactin)
- Allergy Testing
- Genetic Testing (e.g., for sickle cell carriers)
- Autoimmune Panel
Options for Booking Lab Tests in Nigeria
Traditionally, booking a lab test in Nigeria involved visiting a hospital, waiting in long queues, and sometimes returning on multiple days to get results. Today, there are several options:
-
Walk-in to Hospitals or Diagnostic Centers
Most general hospitals and private labs allow you to walk in and request a test. However, this can be time-consuming and dependent on availability. -
Doctor’s Referral
After a consultation, your doctor may refer you to a specific laboratory. The referral form usually contains the type of test required, which you then take to the lab. -
Online Booking Platforms (eHealth solutions)
Platforms like MyMedicalBank allow you to book lab tests online and get the service at your preferred location—sometimes without even visiting the facility, for example at your home or workplace.
Steps to Book a Lab Test with MyMedicalBank
MyMedicalBank is one of Nigeria’s leading digital health platforms connecting individuals to healthcare providers—including diagnostic centers—across the country. Here’s how you can book a lab test:
Step 1: Visit the MyMedicalBank Website or App
Go to www.mymedicalbank.com or download the MyMedicalBank app from the Play Store or App Store. Create a free account or log in if you already have one.
Step 2: Go to Health Market Select “Book a Lab Test”
From the dashboard or menu, go to Health Market. You will be prompted to input your location or the type of test you want to display nearby registered labs or available services.
Step 3: Choose the Type of Test You Need
Whether you’re looking for a blood test, pregnancy test, liver function test, or full body checkup, browse the list or use the search bar to find the test you need. If you are not sure, you can consult a doctor through the platform to recommend tests for you based on your symptoms.
You can choose to visit the diagnostic center or request home sample collection (where a lab technician comes to your house or workplace). This flexibility is ideal for elderly patients, busy professionals, or those with limited mobility.
Step 4: Schedule Appointment and Make Payment
Select a date and time convenient for you. You will see the price and payment options, which typically include bank transfer, card payment, or wallet deduction. Booking confirmation is instant.
Step 5: Get Tested and Receive Results
If you chose home collection, a qualified technician arrives at your location with proper equipment and safety protocols. After sample collection either at home or in the lab, your results will be processed after which you can either go to collect it or have it sent to you and uploaded to your MyMedicalBank profile, usually within 24–72 hours depending on the test type.
You will be notified once the results are ready. You can view, download, or share them with a doctor right within the platform.
Benefits of Booking Lab Tests Online with MyMedicalBank
✅ Convenience – Book from anywhere, no queues.
✅ Home Service – Avoid travel and exposure to hospital environments.
✅ Data Privacy – Your medical records and results are securely stored.
✅ Quick Turnaround – Fast, reliable results with digital access.
✅ Nationwide Coverage – Access to over 42,000 health facilities across Nigeria.
Final Thoughts
Booking a lab test in Nigeria doesn’t have to be stressful or time-consuming. With platforms like MyMedicalBank, you can access diagnostic services in just a few clicks. Whether it’s for routine checkups, pre-employment screening, or managing a chronic condition, taking control of your health has never been easier.
So next time you need a test, skip the lines—book your lab test online with MyMedicalBank.
Ready to get started?
👉 Visit www.mymedicalbank.com or download the app today!