Mountain West · Folic Acid Test – Folic Acid Deficiency
Folic Acid Test – Folic Acid Deficiency in Colorado
This page explains the folic acid test – folic acid deficiency, what it measures, and how to order it. A folic acid test measures the amount of folate, a B vitamin, in your blood. It helps evaluate whether low levels might explain certain symptoms or health concerns.
Lab requirements in Colorado
Here is what you need before ordering and completing the Folic Acid Test – Folic Acid Deficiency in CO. Review each item and confirm the details with the collection lab.
- Physician's order
- Included. A physician's order is required for lab testing and is provided for you by our partner's physicians — no referral from your own doctor is needed.
- Fasting
- Fasting is required for this test — follow the collection lab's instructions.
- Preparation
- Your lab will give you specific instructions to follow before the test. This may include fasting or avoiding certain foods or supplements, so always defer to their guidance.
- Sample & visit
- A blood and/or urine sample is collected; the visit usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Identification
- Bring the lab requisition form from your account. The collection lab may also ask for a government-issued photo ID.
- Turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Availability
- Our partner lab does not serve ND, RI, NY, NJ, MD or HI. Confirm availability for your location with the collection lab.
Before you go
- Order your test before visiting a lab, then use the requisition form in your account.
- Print the requisition form, or fax it to the lab directly from your account.
- No scheduling is needed — visit the collection lab during its normal business hours.
- A blood and/or urine sample is collected; the visit usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Bring a government-issued photo ID in case the lab requests it.
- Results are posted to your secure account within 1–3 business days.
Requirements are summarized from our partner lab's published policies. Preparation and availability can change — confirm current instructions with the collection lab before your visit.
What this test is
This blood test checks the level of folic acid, also called folate, in your body. Folate is essential for making DNA and red blood cells. The test is often used to detect a deficiency.
What it measures
- Serum folate — reflects recent folate intake
- Red blood cell folate — reflects longer-term folate stores
- Hemoglobin — often checked to look for anemia
- Mean corpuscular volume — indicates red blood cell size
What the test involves
A healthcare professional collects a small sample of blood, usually from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Why it is often ordered
A clinician may order this test if you have symptoms of anemia or signs of poor nutrition. It can also be used to monitor conditions that affect folate absorption or to check for deficiency.
Preparation
Your lab will give you specific instructions to follow before the test. This may include fasting or avoiding certain foods or supplements, so always defer to their guidance.
How results are reported
Results are reported as a numeric value that your clinician will interpret. Reference ranges vary by laboratory, so what is considered normal depends on the lab that performed the test.
Before you go
- Whether fasting is required before the test
- Any medications or supplements that might affect results
- The expected turnaround time for results
Cities
Folic Acid Test – Folic Acid Deficiency in Colorado communities
Choose your city for local context and to order this test.