External Send Out Tests

What is an External Send Out (ESO) test?

ESO refers to any test not performed by Alberta Precision Laboratories (APL) and is sent out to a referral laboratory.

Where do I find information for ESO tests?

The APL Test Directory includes many ESO test pages with links to the referral laboratory websites providing collection, processing, and other special handling information. Links to specific referral lab requisitions are also included if available.

It is not feasible for the APL Test Directory to contain information for all possible ESO tests. If you do not find the test you wish to order in the test directory, call 1-877-868-6848 for assistance.

The preferred referral laboratory that is chosen depends on multiple factors including:

  • Contractual obligations
  • Location (a closer location is preferred for specimen stability and result turnaround time)
  • Pricing
  • Test menu & methodology
  • Service, quality issues & customer support

How does APL respond to ESO test requests?

Although individual ESO tests may be ordered less frequently than tests offered by APL, the large variety of ESO tests that are clinically useful means that APL spends a significant portion of its budget on ESO tests. Therefore, most ESO requests are reviewed by APL medical/scientific personnel for appropriateness, and approval is given on a case-by-case basis. Some tests are exempt from the approval process.

The ESO team consults with physician stakeholders, chooses referral laboratories, establishes and monitors contracts with referral labs, and regularly reviews referred out test volumes to optimize cost savings and operational efficiencies.

How do I order an ESO Test?

In Connect Care, search for the test that you want to order (ESO test names contain the suffix “REF”). Click on the APL Test Directory link. Review the test directory page in detail and note any ordering restrictions or requirements. Click on the referral lab test directory page for specimen collection and handling requirements.

If the test is not available in Connect Care, or if you do not have access to Connect Care and have inquiries about ESO testing, call 1-877-868-6848 for assistance.

How do I request a new referred out test or de-list an outdated redundant test?

Refer to Lab Formulary Intake Request.

How do I Get Results?

Referral lab reports are available from Netcare and Connect Care. If your preferred method of delivery is mail or fax, results will be sent to you.

If you believe your lab result is delayed, the ESO laboratory may have encountered challenges that cause delays, such as reagent shortages. If you have a specific result delay question, please contact 1-877-868-6848 and ask to be directed to the appropriate ESO team.

Additional Information

Mitogen DX

MitogenDX is a private immunology testing laboratory located in Calgary and is not operated by APL.

MitogenDX tests are subject to the review and approval process. APL performs equivalent testing for tests that are highlighted in pink on the Autoantibody Test Requisition (Alberta) therefore testing will be performed at APL. In some instances, additional testing from MitogenDX may be appropriate when initial results are equivocal or do not fit the clinical picture.

Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)

Refer to the CSF External Send Out Test Request Tip Sheet, available in the Connect Care Education Materials Library, and Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Collection Guidelines for further information.