Verbatim response from Claude
Annual Blood Tests for a Comprehensive Health Picture
Here are the key panels to consider, along with where to get them:
Core Tests to Request
Metabolic Health
- Complete Metabolic Panel (CMP) - kidney, liver, blood sugar, electrolytes
- Fasting glucose + HbA1c - diabetes risk
- Fasting lipid panel - cholesterol breakdown
Blood Health
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) - anemia, immune function, infection signs
Hormones
- Thyroid (TSH, free T3/T4)
- Testosterone (total + free, especially men over 35)
- Cortisol if you have fatigue issues
Nutrients Often Missed
- Vitamin D (25-OH)
- B12 + folate
- Ferritin (iron stores)
- Magnesium
Inflammation/Heart Risk
- hsCRP (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein)
- Homocysteine
Where to Order These
- Your primary care doctor - most covered by insurance
- Function Health - comprehensive membership model, 100+ biomarkers
- Marek Health - good for hormone-focused testing
- Ulta Lab Tests or Walk-In Lab - order your own without a doctor
Talk to your doctor first - they can help prioritize based on your age, family history, and symptoms.