Yes! Thanks to convenient telehealth platforms like Sesame, you can schedule and pay for a comprehensive metabolic panel lab test online - without ever stepping into a doctor's office. Sesame has partnered with over 1,500 Quest Diagnostic locations to offer blood testing - such as comprehensive metabolic panel tests - at affordable cash prices, without insurance.
If you’re ready to book a lab test, follow these simple steps:
- Search for the type of lab test you are looking for (e.g., “Comprehensive Metabolic Panel”, or “Testosterone Lab Test”).
- Browse Quest Diagnostics locations to find the patient service center that is most convenient for you.
- Either book a walk-in appointment or schedule a visit for a time that works best for you.
- Save 50-60% on your test with our online-only prices. Pay a one-time price upfront without ever having to see a doctor.
- We send immediately send your order to the clinic of your choosing so that you can get your testing done that very same day. Either head to the office for a walk-in appointment, or show up at your scheduled appointment time.
Email us at support@sesamecare.com or call us at 1 (877) 947-6411 between 9 AM and 5 PM Central, Monday through Friday. We'll try to find you a lab or blood test as quickly as we can.
What is a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel Test?
Comprehensive metabolic panels (CMPs) are diagnostic blood tests used to provide doctors with important information about chemical balance in the blood, metabolism, and organ function. To do this, CMPs measure these 14 diverse substances in your blood:
- Albumin
- Blood urea nitrogen
- Calcium
- Carbon dioxide
- Chloride
- Creatinine
- Glucose
- Potassium
- Sodium
- Total bilirubin
- Total protein
- Liver enzymes (alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and aspartate aminotransferase)
Why are CMPs performed?
Comprehensive metabolic panels help doctors get a clear picture of your internal health. This is especially important for individuals managing chronic conditions (such as diabetes), or individuals who routinely take prescription medication that may affect liver and kidney function.
In addition to its use as a method of checking overall health, the results of a CMP can help doctors detect and diagnose conditions such as:
- Kidney & liver disease
- Diabetes
- Nutrient imbalances
- Dehydration
In some cases, a CMP may not be enough to definitively diagnose a condition such as diabetes or liver disease. If this is the case, follow-up testing may be ordered to screen for a specific condition.
What is the difference between a Basic Metabolic Panel and a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel?
Basic metabolic panels are primarily used to check your body’s acid-base balance, as well as blood sugar and electrolyte levels. Instead of measuring the 14 substances listed above, basic metabolic panels measure only:
- Blood urea nitrogen
- Calcium
- Carbon dioxide
- Chloride
- Creatinine
- Glucose
- Potassium
- Sodium
By measuring certain liver enzymes, total protein, and bilirubin levels, CMPs measure the substances listed above and chemicals specifically related to liver function.
How are CMPs performed?
Only a single sample of blood is required to measure the 14 different substances screened during a CMP. To draw blood, a thin needle is inserted into the arm (usually the forearm or the crease of the elbow). Before the needle is put into your skin, the area will be sanitized. You may feel a pinch as the needle punctures your skin, but this discomfort should subside within a few seconds. The puncture site will be cleaned and bandaged after the needed amount of blood has been drawn from the arm.
CMPs are quick and do not require sedation. You will be cleared to leave the clinic and resume your daily activities once the testing is finished.
In most cases, you’ll get your results within 24 hours of your test. If your results require a follow-up appointment, we will advise you on the next steps.
How do I prepare for a CMP?
No specific preparation is needed for a CMP. Feel free to eat and drink normally before the test.
How long does it take to book a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel?
Sesame is the fastest way to book a CMP lab test - at the best cash price. Use our booking platform to schedule a lab test directly at the most convenient Quest lab near you. This takes about 2 minutes. Once you’ve finished checking out, we send your order directly to the lab so you can get your blood work done that day - often with results in 24 hours. That’s convenience you won’t find anywhere else.
