Diabetes Blood Test at the Chemist in Neath – 15-Minute HbA1c

Wondering if you can get a diabetes test at the chemist? At The Health Dispensary in Neath, we offer a quick HbA1c diabetes blood test with results in around 15 minutes. This simple finger-prick test is carried out in our private pharmacy clinic.

Can you get a diabetes test at the chemist?

Yes. Our Neath pharmacy offers a private HbA1c blood test that checks your average blood sugar levels over the past 2–3 months. It’s a convenient option if you’re worried about diabetes, have been told you are “pre-diabetic”, or simply want to monitor your control.

This service does not replace NHS care, but it can provide helpful information between GP appointments or as a first step if you are concerned.

What is an HbA1c diabetes blood test?

HbA1c (glycated haemoglobin) measures how much glucose attaches to your red blood cells. Unlike a one-off blood sugar reading, it shows your average blood sugar control over several months.

Our in-pharmacy HbA1c test:

• Uses a small finger-prick sample of blood
• Provides results in around 15 minutes during your appointment
• Gives a clear number which can be compared to diabetes and pre-diabetes ranges

In-Clinic or At-Home Diabetes Test – What’s the Difference?

We offer two convenient ways to check your HbA1c (diabetes) levels:

• In-clinic 15-minute test: a finger-prick test carried out at our Neath pharmacy with results while you wait, plus personalised guidance from our clinical team.
• Home HbA1c test kit: take a finger-prick sample at home and post it to a UK-accredited lab for a gold-standard HbA1c report – ideal if you live further away.

Browse home HbA1c & diabetes test kits in our online shop.

Who should consider a diabetes blood test?

You may benefit from a diabetes blood test at the pharmacy if you:

• Feel unusually tired, thirsty, or are passing urine more often
• Have a family history of type 2 diabetes
• Carry excess weight, especially around the middle
• Have previously been told you have “borderline” or “pre-diabetes” levels
• Are monitoring lifestyle changes or are on a weight-loss programme

If you experience symptoms such as severe thirst, weight loss, vomiting or blurred vision, please seek urgent medical advice.

What happens during your 15-minute appointment?

1. Check-in: we confirm your details, symptoms and medicines.
2. Finger-prick sample: a small drop of blood is taken.
3. Analysis: your sample is processed while you wait.
4. Results explained: we discuss your HbA1c result and the next steps.

With your permission, we can share your result summary with your GP.

How accurate is the pharmacy diabetes test?

Our HbA1c test uses a CE-marked point-of-care system similar to those used in clinics. It provides a reliable indication of whether your blood sugar sits in the normal, pre-diabetic or diabetic range.

However, diagnosis should always be confirmed by your GP or diabetes specialist. We’ll advise you when follow-up is needed.

Link with our other blood tests and services

Alongside diabetes testing, we offer a wider range of 15-minute blood tests in Neath, including vitamin D, B12, thyroid and more.

Our weight-management programmes may also help reduce your diabetes risk.

Booking your diabetes blood test

If you’ve been searching for “can you get a diabetes test at the chemist”, “do chemists do diabetes tests”, or “diabetes test Neath”, we’re here to help.

Use the booking widget on this page to choose your appointment, or call us on 01639 630000.

FAQs – Diabetes Tests at the Pharmacy

Do chemists do diabetes tests?

Yes. Many pharmacies offer private diabetes checks. At The Health Dispensary we provide an HbA1c test with results in around 15 minutes, plus helpful advice.

Can I get a diabetes test without seeing my GP first?

Yes. No referral is needed. If the result suggests diabetes or poor control, we’ll advise you to contact your GP.

Do I need to fast?

No. HbA1c is not affected by whether you’ve eaten recently.

Will this test diagnose diabetes?

It can strongly indicate whether you’re in the normal, pre-diabetic or diabetic range. A formal diagnosis must be made by your GP or diabetes specialist.

How often should I test?

People with diabetes are often checked every 3–6 months. We can recommend a suitable plan for your situation.

This is a private, self-pay service. It does not replace NHS diabetes care or urgent medical help. If you are worried about serious symptoms, please contact NHS 111, your GP, or emergency services.