The Fresh Test at Labcorp - GLUCOLA Alternative

marcap123

Did anyone go to Labcorp for the glucose test, and did they offer the "Fresh Test"? It's an option listed on Labcorp's website, but to me, it is completely unclear how one goes about obtaining it. It seems like the patient has to order it ahead of time. Or does Labcorp have it there, and give you a choice? There's so much information on the product but little about the process at Labcorp. Thanks!

meggyme

I have no idea what that is, but I bet a quick call to Labcorp would clear it up.

marcap123

Well Labcorp is not clearing it up. Individual Labcorp sites will not answer the phone. I called 7 in my area and left voicemails. No return calls. Then I was told by a corporate customer service agent, "oh yeah individual sites don't speak directly with patients." The customer service agent was somewhat familiar with the Fresh Test and tried calling the same sites I did, but could not get through either!

The idea is the site either has it in stock and patients can request it. OR the site doesn't have it in stock, and the patient needs to order it to their home ahead of time. But it would be nice to know if the site has it or not. I'm also concerned that if I order it myself and bring it in, the particular site won't know about it. The rep said they "should know, they've received 'communication' on it." But she also said be prepared to ask for a supervisor if they refuse to let me use it.

Honestly, this is ridiculous. There is an FDA-approved, Labcorp-approved (& advertised!) cleaner alternative to the glucola drink--and it seems completely inaccessible to the average patient. Not to mention, I think this is false advertising on Labcorp's part:

https://www.labcorp.com/pregnancy/thefreshtest

inthewoods23

If this Fresh Test is just a different drink that's equivalent to the glucola, sounds like something you'd talk to your OB about using over what they might provide at their office. I don't think it has anything to do with the gestational diabetes test itself which may be why you're not getting much of an answer from Labcorp

marcap123

If you see the link, it is used at Labcorp in place of Glucola, upon request. It does not require a doctor's order. The link I posted above states patients at Labcorp have a choice. Only what I'm finding is that some Labcorp sites stock it and others do not. Finding out which ones stock it is apparently impossible. There is nothing my doctor can do other than say OK yeah try it.. I mean, if my doc did the test at their office, then yeah, I'd be bringing it there or asking them to supply it. But my doc sent me to Labcorp for the test. Anyone can order the drink online. I just need more info from Labcorp about what to do-- bring it in unmixed? premixed? Will they insist on mixing it for me? No one can answer these questions, so I feel they shouldn't promote the product if they don't have the details!

inthewoods23

Sounds like you should just call the manufacturer.

paytonpedro

If this is your hill to die on, then just do what the customer service person told you and order it to your house, take it with you, and insist on using it. Personally I’ve used the glucola drink 3 times and I don’t understand other women's issues with it. 

marcap123

Did that too! I've spoken with the VP of Client Services @ The Fresh Test. She has been the most helpful of anyone, but unfortunately, has no direct access to Labcorp. She recommended I reach out to the Labcorp location, but again, they do not answer. She can't tell me the instructions because "each location differs." I'm stuck. Yeah, I can just do the Glucola drink, fine. That's what I was planning to do. But now I'm invested in this, and honestly want to advocate for anyone who prefers this method. It shouldn't be this hard...

marcap123

Probably will do that. It's just that I'll need to reschedule my appointment if I decide to order and wait for the product. And it needs to stay refrigerated which means I need to be home to receive it, etc etc. Just a big hassle, when it would be nice to know if they have it there. I'm just too invested and annoyed now. Wish I never saw the advertisement.

meggyme

You could walk into the labcorp and ask your question…