Chronic Condition Care and Monitoring
Regular review and support for long-term conditions, so that your treatment keeps up with your life.
Preventive Screening
Haemoglobin (Hb) Screening
A quick blood test for anaemia — the low iron that so often goes unnoticed.
Preventive Screening
What this service is
Haemoglobin is the protein inside your red blood cells that carries oxygen around the body. When the haemoglobin level is too low, you have anaemia, and your body is not delivering oxygen as efficiently as it should.
Anaemia is very common, particularly in women of reproductive age, during pregnancy, and in children. It causes tiredness, breathlessness on stairs, dizziness, headaches and poor concentration — symptoms that are often put down to being busy rather than to anything medical.
A haemoglobin test takes a few minutes from a finger-prick sample, and it is one of the quickest ways to find out whether you are anaemic.
At your visit
What to expect
Every visit is a little different, but these are the steps you can expect for this service at Ikageng Health Centre.
Finger-prick sample
A small sample is taken from a fingertip and the haemoglobin reading is available straight away.
How you have been feeling
We ask about energy, dizziness, breathlessness, headaches and concentration.
Looking for the cause
Menstrual history, diet, pregnancy status and recent illness are all considered, because the cause changes the treatment.
Reviewing other results
Any other blood results we already hold are taken into account.
Treatment plan
Treatment is discussed, including iron supplementation where it is appropriate, and how to take it well.
Reasons to visit
Why people come to us
If any of these sound like you, please come in — or phone us first if you would like to talk it through before you do.
- You feel tired all the time, even after a good night’s sleep.
- You feel dizzy, or you get breathless more easily than you used to.
- You are pregnant, or you have recently given birth.
- You have heavy periods, or you eat a vegetarian or vegan diet.
- You have been unwell recently, or you are recovering from illness or surgery.
Before you come
- Bring your clinic card or any records you have.
- Bring a list of any medication and supplements you take.
- Bring the results of any tests done elsewhere.
- Write down your questions beforehand — it helps.
- Bring someone with you if you would like support.
All of our conversations are private. You are welcome to ask questions at any point, and you can ask to speak alone.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
If your question is not answered here, phone us on 067 575 2528 — we are happy to talk it through.
What is anaemia?
Anaemia means your blood does not carry enough oxygen around the body, usually because haemoglobin is low. It is common and it is treatable.
How do I know if I am anaemic?
Tiredness, dizziness, breathlessness, headaches and pale skin or nails are common signs, but a haemoglobin test is the only reliable way to know for certain.
Will I need extra iron?
Many people with anaemia are helped by iron supplementation, but the right treatment depends on the cause. We will advise you based on your result and your history.
Can my children be checked?
Yes. Haemoglobin screening is a common part of childhood health checks, and children can be tested at the Health Centre.
Related
You might also need
Many of our services work hand in hand. These are the ones people ask about most often alongside Hb screening.
Antenatal Care
Regular monitoring, health guidance and a listening ear through every stage of your pregnancy.
Minor Ailments
Everyday illnesses and injuries, assessed properly, treated sensibly and sent home with clear advice.
Ready to take the next step?
Whether you need this service, a routine screening, or simply have a question about your health, we are here to help.