Where your sample is tested
Most tests will be done at the lab closest to where your sample is collected. Some labs are larger than others, and not all tests are done at every NSHA lab location. If your test is not done at the lab were your sample is collected, we will send your sample safely to another lab that can do the test. You do not need to do anything else.
Rarely, we may need to you go to a certain place to have your test collected. Your health care provider will talk to you about this, if it applies to you.
Do I need to pay?
If you have a valid Health Card, there is usually no cost to having your sample collected and tested.
If you do not have a Health Card, you may need to pay for your tests. The cost depends on which tests you need. Your private insurance, employer, or other coverage may help pay for these costs.
In rare cases, you may need to pay for a test you want even if you have a Health Card. If this happens, your health care provider will talk to you about the cost, and so will we, before the test. For more info, please see our web page for fees and bill payments.
There are costs for testing your water. Please see our web page on water testing for more information.
Test catalogues
Each lab has a list of tests it can do, called a Test Catalogue. The Test Catalogues include detailed information about the sample needed for the tests, and are provided here if you would like to learn more.
- Aberdeen Lab Test Catalogue
- Central Zone Lab Test Catalogue
- Colchester East Hants Health Centre Lab Test Catalogue
- Cumberland Lab Test Catalogue
- Eastern Zone Lab Test Catalogue
- Western Zone Lab Test Catalogue
If you do not see your test listed, do not worry. It may be done by another lab, or we may even send that test to be done outside the province. Please talk to us or your health care provider about your concerns.