Skin Allergy Test Request Process

In September 2023, Pathlab released a clinical update with a link to the online skin prick request form, requesting that only this be used instead of the previous paper and fillable pdf versions. While most requests now come via this form, we continue to receive printed and scanned forms.

Effective 1st June 2025, Pathlab will no longer accept skin prick requests that are not submitted via the online form.

Accessing the form: https://www.pathlab.co.nz/skin-prick

  • This is a permanent link which you can add to your browser favourites.
  • The link can also be found under the ‘Providers’ tab ‘Forms’ - scroll down to the ‘Forms’ section.
  • A patient information sheet is also accessible from this section. There is no consent form, as this is provided at the time of testing by Pathlab.

Benefits of the online form:

  • Reliability: The online form is automatically emailed directly to the laboratory when ‘Submit’ is clicked. This is far more reliable than scanning through forms which can be unreadable, or sent to the wrong email address, and often have no return email address for correspondence.

  • Traceability: After clicking Submit, you will receive an email copy of the filled form for your records. Another option is to print the response directly by clicking the “...” icon in the top right corner of the post-submission window. You can also save a submission directly into MS Forms if you have an account.

  • Reduced administrative burden for requestors and the laboratory: The online form streamlines the referral process for requestors, while the use of mandatory fields has resulted in less emails back and forth requesting missed information.

  • Facilitates appropriate requesting: The previous versions of the form allow the submission of request combinations that are not acceptable, e.g. large battery of foods selected, or eczema as sole clinical indication. These are declined when they reach the laboratory, so are best avoided at the point of request.

Concerns:

  • The form is publicly available. However, valid requestor details need to be provided, so inappropriate use of the form would likely be detected either during the referral approval or registration process at the laboratory.
  • We have had no reported cases of fraudulent use of the form to date.
  • Long term, we do hope to migrate this process to Eclair, which will improve efficiency and security.