Private diabetes blood test (HbA1c)
HbA1c blood testing helps identify raised average blood sugar and possible type 2 diabetes or prediabetes risk. Available as part of our private health check packages at our Kingston and Crawley clinics, with no fasting required.
No GP referral needed — book directly online
What it checks
What does an HbA1c blood test check?
HbA1c — sometimes called glycated haemoglobin — measures how much glucose has been attached to your red blood cells over the past 2–3 months. It’s the standard blood test for assessing average blood sugar and supporting type 2 diabetes risk assessment, and unlike a fasting glucose test, it isn’t affected by what you’ve recently eaten.
HbA1c is reported in both mmol/mol and percentage format. All our health check packages include HbA1c testing.
- HbA1c (mmol/mol)
- HbA1c %
Which packages include it
Diabetes testing in our packages
HbA1c is included in every one of our health check packages, alongside a clinical 10-year diabetes risk score.
Optimal
£189
Includes HbA1c testing alongside thyroid function, hs-CRP inflammation and a 10-year diabetes risk score.
Men’s Cancer Marker Check
£249
Includes HbA1c testing alongside PSA prostate testing and FIT bowel screening.
Women’s Cancer Marker Check
£249
Includes HbA1c testing alongside CA125 testing and FIT bowel screening.
Single blood tests start from £99, with some specialist tests priced higher. For better value, many patients choose a health check package instead, which includes a broader blood panel, on-the-day checks and a clearer picture of their results.
What results may indicate
Understanding HbA1c results
HbA1c results fall into one of three broad ranges. Your report will explain your specific result in context.
What HbA1c measures
HbA1c reflects how much glucose has been attached to haemoglobin in your red blood cells over the past 2–3 months. It’s the most widely used test for assessing average blood sugar and supporting type 2 diabetes risk assessment.
Normal range
A result below 42 mmol/mol (6.0%) is generally considered normal. This range is generally consistent with normal average blood sugar levels.
Prediabetes range
A result between 42–47 mmol/mol (6.0–6.4%) may indicate prediabetes — a stage where blood sugar is raised but not yet at diabetes levels. This is often where lifestyle changes can have the biggest impact.
Diabetes range
A result of 48 mmol/mol (6.5%) or higher may indicate diabetes and should always be discussed with your GP for proper assessment, confirmation and follow-up.
Type 2 diabetes 10-year risk
Our health check packages also calculate a 10-year diabetes risk score using lifestyle, family history and clinical data alongside your HbA1c result, giving a fuller picture than the blood test alone.
Diabetes blood tests are for screening and risk awareness, not diagnosis. A diabetes diagnosis is usually confirmed by a GP through repeat testing. If results suggest medical follow-up — or if you have current symptoms — please speak to your GP.
How it works
How private blood testing works
- 1
Choose your package
Pick the blood test panel and health check level that suits your needs.
- 2
Book Kingston or Crawley
Choose your clinic and appointment time online.
- 3
Attend your appointment
Your Health Adviser takes your blood sample and completes your on-the-day checks.
- 4
Receive your report
Blood results are usually ready within 2–5 working days, with clear explanations and next-step guidance.
Where we test
Kingston and Crawley clinics
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Patients regularly mention feeling relaxed, reassured and clearly guided throughout their health check.
“Really nice guy. I felt very at ease and it was a smooth process. Joe gave me insight into my diet that I hadn't considered before which I found very helpful. Definitely recommend!”
“I had an excellent experience for my first appointment. Joe was welcoming and took the time to explain each step clearly, which made the appointment feel relaxed and reassuring. The overall level of care was outstanding.”
“Super happy with the health screening experience. Joe was welcoming, friendly and gave lots of great tips about my health. Highly recommend, I will definitely be back!!”
“Highly recommended. The whole process is simple and smooth. Joe was professional and friendly, who also gave some general health advice. Definitely worth it.”
“My practitioner was very professional and friendly. The health screening was conducted in the way it was described beforehand, and all the tests were completed as expected. I would recommend the service.”
“I recently had a health screening and was thoroughly impressed from start to finish. Joe immediately made me feel at ease. The entire appointment was extremely well organised and professional, yet never felt rushed. I couldn't recommend Optimum Health Screening highly enough.”
FAQ
Diabetes blood test — frequently asked questions
Do I need a GP referral for a diabetes blood test?
Do I need to fast before an HbA1c test?
What does the HbA1c blood test include?
How quickly will I get my diabetes results?
What if my HbA1c is in the prediabetes range?
Can I just book an HbA1c test on its own?
Related blood tests
Other health markers often checked alongside this test
Ready to book a diabetes blood test?
Choose a health check package at our Kingston or Crawley clinics, with no GP referral needed and results in 2–5 working days.
Or call 020 8058 7765