Here’s how we approach diagnostic testing (and make it less stressful for you)

When it comes to getting answers about your gut health, sometimes screening tests and labs are the next step. That’s true whether you see an in-person gastrointestinal (GI) specialist or get virtual care.

If your Oshi GI provider thinks labs or testing are necessary, your care team is here to guide you every step of the way

Here’s what to expect.

Our approach: The basics

Oshi follows the same high standards as any GI specialist or primary care provider when it comes to testing and diagnostics by connecting you with trusted labs or imaging centers.

We recommend tests only when they’re truly needed for diagnosis and treatment planning—never just to check a box. That means no unnecessary repeat testing here.

Plus, we handle the logistics. Our care coordinators can help you find convenient, in-network locations for testing and care, so you’re not stuck making phone calls in your free time.

After your test, the results will be sent directly to your GI provider. Your provider will send you a message when the results come in and may request a follow-up visit to discuss them. During the follow-up visit, they’ll explain your results and help you understand what they mean for your digestive health.

How it works: A step-by-step look at Oshi’s external referral process

Every lab or provider will do things a bit differently, but here’s what you can expect from the Oshi side of things.

Personalized recommendations

Your provider will ask you about your symptoms, medical history, family history, and goals before suggesting any labs or tests.

By tailoring testing and procedures to you, we avoid exploratory testing that can lead to dead ends and extra costs.

Referral support

Need a blood test, colonoscopy, or infusion treatment? We’ll help you schedule it at a location that works for you—and make sure it’s in-network with your insurance.

Our care coordinators are also on deck to help with scheduling if your GI provider recommends diagnostic testing and screening.

Results, explained

Results get sent directly to your GI provider who can walk you through what your results mean during a follow-up visit. Our care coordination team will also be happy to send you a PDF of your results at your request. If your lab results are coming from LabCorp or Quest, you can set up an account through their systems to view them.

Still not sure about something? Your GI provider will be happy to answer your questions. Plus, if questions come up after your scheduled follow-up visit, you can always submit questions via chat for a response within 24 hours.

Next steps, together

Your GI provider takes into account everything you’ve talked about together, along with any previous test results. They’ll typically start you on a tailored treatment plan right away after your first visit—even if they recommend additional testing.

That means you don’t have to put your progress on hold while waiting for test results. As new information comes in from testing, your provider (and the rest of your care team, which could include a registered dietitian and/or gut-brain specialist, depending on your needs) adjusts your plan as needed.

Types of diagnostic tests and screenings we might recommend

Here are some examples of labs and testing your Oshi GI provider might recommend.

• Routine bloodwork. This helps them gather key information about your current digestive and overall health.
• Imaging. Computerized tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and other imaging tests can help your GI provider get a look at what’s going on inside your body.
• Colonoscopy. Your provider might recommend this type of test if you fit the criteria for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening. It might also serve to investigate the causes of specific GI symptoms.
• Other tests. They might recommend imaging, stool tests, or other diagnostic procedures like endoscopy, depending on your specific needs and health history.

Your provider will help you make the most informed decisions, like whether to pursue a specific test, and answer any questions you have.

Takeaway: A patient-first approach

Our goal is to make your GI care experience a seamless, stress-free one. And that extends to testing. diagnostics, and screening. Let’s recap our approach:

• We’ll take into account previous testing and diagnostics. You don’t have to come to Oshi with prior testing or GI care. But if you do, we’ll review it to make sure we don’t order unnecessary tests.
• You’ll always know why you’re getting labs or testing done. At Oshi, we never leave you in the dark about why we’re recommending (or not recommending) testing.
• You’ll get personalized, expert support. Your GI provider will walk you through results in plain language, so you’re on the same page as your care team as they work together to create a personalized treatment plan. And our care coordinators are here to help with the logistics.

Ready to find lasting relief from GI symptoms? We’ll help you understand your options and sort out next steps at your own pace. Book your virtual visit today!

*Names have been changed to maintain confidentiality.