What is Therapeutic Phlebotomy?
Therapeutic phlebotomy, also known as therapeutic blood draw or iron reduction therapy, is a medically prescribed procedure that removes a controlled amount of blood from your body to treat conditions caused by excess red blood cells or iron overload.
Unlike voluntary blood donation, therapeutic phlebotomy is performed under medical supervision as a treatment for specific health conditions. The procedure helps lower elevated red blood cell counts or excess iron levels, which can reduce the risk of serious health issues such as blood clots, heart problems, or organ damage.
How Therapeutic Phlebotomy Works at Quick Test Health Services
Obtain Doctor's Order
Your physician provides a prescription specifying your diagnosis, the amount of blood to remove, and how often you need treatment.
Schedule Your Visit
Call us to schedule your appointment. Choose in-office at our Mesa facility or mobile service to your home. We typically have same-week availability.
Pre-Procedure Evaluation
We check your hemoglobin and hematocrit levels to ensure it's safe to proceed. We also measure your blood pressure and pulse.
Blood Collection
The procedure takes 20-40 minutes. We remove the amount prescribed by your doctor while monitoring your comfort throughout. You can relax, read, or watch your phone during the process.
Post-Procedure Care
We recheck your vital signs and ensure you feel well before you leave. We provide aftercare instructions and can schedule your next appointment based on your doctor's orders.
Our Commitment to Your Safety
Every therapeutic phlebotomy at Quick Test Health Services follows strict medical protocols to ensure your safety and comfort.
Two Convenient Ways to Receive Treatment
In-Office Service
Visit our professional medical facility in Mesa for your therapeutic phlebotomy treatment.
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Medical-grade environment
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Comfortable recliners
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All safety equipment on-site
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Pre-procedure H&H testing
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Vital signs monitoring
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Convenient Mesa location
Mobile Service
Receive therapeutic phlebotomy treatment in the comfort of your own home or office.
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We come to your location
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Perfect for mobility-limited patients
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All equipment brought to you
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Pre-procedure H&H testing
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Vital signs monitoring
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Serving East Valley
Information for Men on Testosterone Replacement Therapy
If you're undergoing TRT and experiencing elevated hematocrit or hemoglobin levels, therapeutic phlebotomy can help you manage this common side effect safely while continuing your treatment.
Why TRT Patients May Need Therapeutic Phlebotomy
Testosterone stimulates red blood cell production in bone marrow. While this can be beneficial, it sometimes leads to excessive production, resulting in:
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Elevated hematocrit (Hct) - Blood becomes thicker than normal
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High hemoglobin (Hgb) - More oxygen-carrying capacity than needed
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Increased cardiovascular risk - Thicker blood is harder to pump and more prone to clotting
When Therapeutic Phlebotomy is Recommended
Most TRT providers recommend therapeutic phlebotomy when hematocrit exceeds 54% or when symptoms develop. Common symptoms include headaches, high blood pressure, fatigue, dizziness, or visual changes. Your doctor will monitor your levels and prescribe treatment frequency based on your individual needs.
What to Expect
Most TRT patients need therapeutic phlebotomy every 4-8 weeks, though frequency varies based on individual response. Removing one pint of blood typically lowers hematocrit by 3-4 points. Your TRT provider will adjust your treatment plan based on your regular blood work results.
Transparent Pricing
Self-pay service with FSA and HSA accepted. Receipts provided for insurance reimbursement submission.
In-Office Service
Visit our Mesa facility for therapeutic phlebotomy treatment
$100
Mobile Service
We come to your home or office location
$140
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a doctor's order for therapeutic phlebotomy?
Yes, a prescription from your physician is absolutely required. The order must specify your diagnosis, the amount of blood to remove (typically 500ml/1 pint), and how often you need the procedure. This is a medical requirement to ensure your safety.
How long does a therapeutic phlebotomy appointment take?
Plan for 45-60 minutes total. This includes check-in, pre-procedure hemoglobin and hematocrit testing, vital signs measurement, the actual blood draw (20-40 minutes), post-procedure monitoring, and recovery time before you leave.
What should I do to prepare for my appointment?
Drink plenty of water the day before and day of your appointment. Eat a good meal 2-3 hours before your appointment. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing with sleeves that can roll up easily. Bring your doctor's order if it's your first visit with us.
Will I feel weak or dizzy after the procedure?
Most people tolerate therapeutic phlebotomy well. Some mild lightheadedness immediately after is normal and usually resolves within minutes. We monitor your vital signs and don't let you leave until you feel stable. Avoid strenuous activity for the rest of the day.
How often will I need therapeutic phlebotomy?
Treatment frequency varies by condition and individual response. Newly diagnosed hemochromatosis patients often start with weekly treatments until iron levels normalize, then switch to maintenance (every 2-3 months). TRT patients typically need it every 4-8 weeks. Your doctor determines your specific schedule.
What happens to the blood after it's removed?
The blood is properly disposed of through medical biohazard waste protocols. Unlike voluntary blood donation centers, therapeutic phlebotomy blood is removed for medical treatment purposes and is not used for transfusions.
Is therapeutic phlebotomy covered by insurance?
Our therapeutic phlebotomy service is self-pay. We accept FSA (Flexible Spending Account) and HSA (Health Savings Account) cards. We provide detailed receipts that you can submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement. Coverage varies by plan, so contact your insurance provider for specific information.
Can I drive myself home after therapeutic phlebotomy?
Most patients can drive themselves home after therapeutic phlebotomy, especially if you're receiving regular treatments. However, if this is your first procedure or if you tend to feel dizzy, we recommend arranging for someone to drive you home as a precaution.
What are the side effects of therapeutic phlebotomy?
Side effects are generally mild and may include temporary lightheadedness, mild fatigue, or bruising at the needle site. Serious complications are rare. Drinking plenty of fluids before and after, and eating a good meal beforehand, helps minimize side effects.
Do you offer therapeutic phlebotomy on weekends?
Yes, we offer therapeutic phlebotomy on Saturday mornings from 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM. We're closed on Sundays. Monday through Friday hours are 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM.