Which Blood Test Should You Actually Get
If you've read the Cura Check framework, you know the six numbers that matter most: blood pressure, cholesterol (ideally including ApoB), blood sugar, weight trend, smoking status, and activity level. Blood pressure and the lifestyle factors you can track yourself. The rest comes from a simple blood draw.
What to actually order
A standard lipid panel plus a basic or comprehensive metabolic panel covers the core numbers. HbA1c is a good optional add. Advanced markers like ApoB, Lp(a), and hs-CRP are a second step, not a first one.
Two markers worth knowing about beyond the core panel: Lp(a), the cholesterol number standard panels skip, and the p-tau217 blood test for early Alzheimer's changes.
Before you order, check your state
New York, New Jersey, Rhode Island, and Maryland restrict or require a physician's order for direct-to-consumer lab testing. If you live in one of these states, plan on going through your doctor.
Where to order
These are options, not rankings. Any of them can get you the same core numbers.
- • Quest direct ordering
- • LabCorp OnDemand
- • Independent ordering platforms that route to Quest or LabCorp draw sites
- • Your own doctor, which is often the simplest route if you already have one
[LAB PARTNER LINKS - TO BE ADDED]
What this costs
A basic panel typically runs roughly $30–100. Advanced panels with markers like ApoB and Lp(a) run roughly $150–400.
Print this and hand it over
A one-page worksheet listing the exact panel to ask for, plus the measured items a blood test can't give you — blood pressure, height, weight, medications. Fill it in at the visit, then type the values into Cura Check.
Print the office visit worksheet (PDF)This page is for general information and isn't a recommendation to use any specific lab or service. Always confirm testing options and requirements for your state.
This information is for general educational purposes and isn't a substitute for advice from your own care team. Cura Well Plan does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and AI-generated content may contain errors — always confirm important details with a qualified healthcare provider. If you're experiencing a medical emergency, contact emergency services immediately.