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Lead Testing

Lead Testing for a Healthier, Safer Future

At Midwest Express Clinic, we’re committed to your family’s health and safety. Our lead testing services are fast, accurate, and available 7 days a week at all of our convenient locations across Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana.

Whether you’re testing due to state requirements, school or daycare enrollment, or peace of mind, our expert medical team is here to help—no appointment necessary.

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Why is Lead Testing Important?

Lead exposure—especially in children under 6—can affect growth, development, and learning. The CDC recommends testing for children who:

Live in older homes with potential lead-based paint
Attend daycare or school with testing requirements
Receive Medicaid or live in high-risk ZIP codes
Have a sibling or playmate who has tested positive

Early detection can help prevent serious long-term health issues. Medical management, including interventions like chelation therapy, is crucial in addressing lead exposure. That’s why it’s essential to get tested when recommended. Stopping children from coming into contact with lead is urgent to safeguard their health and development.

What to Expect

Lead testing at Midwest Express Clinic is quick and simple. We offer:

Finger-stick or venous blood draw, depending on age and health department guidelines. A venous sample is more accurate for confirmatory testing if initial screening shows elevated blood lead levels.
Fast turnaround times for results.
Thorough follow-up from our experienced providers if results require additional care.

We also offer state-mandated testing for Illinois and Indiana, so you can rest assured you’re meeting school and childcare requirements.

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Interpreting Test Results

A blood lead test measures lead in micrograms per deciliter (μg/dL). The CDC considers 3.5 μg/dL or higher a concern, with 5 μg/dL defined as elevated. Even low levels can be harmful. Test results should be assessed along with the child’s age, medical history, and possible exposure sources. Healthcare providers guide next steps based on individual needs.

Health Risks

Lead poisoning is especially dangerous for children under 6, potentially causing brain and nerve damage, developmental delays, learning disabilities, and behavioral problems. Severe cases can lead to seizures, coma, or death. Adults exposed to lead—especially through work or old homes—are also at risk. Pregnant women face increased risks of miscarriage, stillbirth, and low birth weight. Healthcare providers and local health departments are key to prevention and treatment.

Preventive Measures

Preventing lead poisoning involves reducing exposure, promoting healthy habits, and regular testing. Key steps include:

Removing lead-based paint and contaminated soil
Using lead-free products and avoiding items like certain cosmetics and jewelry
Practicing good hygiene and keeping surfaces clean
Eating a diet rich in iron and calcium to limit lead absorption
Ensuring regular blood lead testing for children under 6
Following guidance from healthcare providers and local health departments

These steps help minimize risk and support overall health, with healthcare providers playing a key role in prevention and care.

Visit Us Today

You can walk into any of our locations, or check in online to save your spot and reduce wait time. We make it easy to get your child or yourself tested without the hassle of long waits or limited hours.

Your health and safety matter. Get the answers you need today with quick, reliable lead testing at Midwest Express Clinic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who should get lead testing?

Children under the age of 6 are at the highest risk of lead exposure. The CDC recommends testing for children who live in older homes (built before 1978), have siblings or playmates with lead poisoning, or receive Medicaid. The updated blood lead reference value (BLRV) established by the CDC helps identify children with blood lead levels higher than most children’s levels. Children who have siblings or playmates with lead poisoning should also be tested to determine how much lead is present in their blood, and follow-up testing is crucial to monitor these levels. Illinois and Indiana also have specific guidelines that may require testing for school or daycare enrollment.

Is lead testing required for school or daycare?

Yes, many schools and daycares in Illinois and Indiana require lead testing as part of enrollment, especially for children under 6. We provide testing that meets state-mandated requirements. It is crucial to test for lead contamination in drinking water to ensure the safety and health of children.

How is lead testing done?

Lead testing is typically performed with a finger-stick blood test or a venous blood draw, depending on age and medical guidelines. A venous sample is more accurate than a capillary sample and is essential for confirmatory testing if initial screening shows elevated blood lead levels. Our providers will determine the appropriate method at the time of your visit. Capillary samples can sometimes yield falsely elevated results, necessitating a follow-up venous test to verify the findings and determine the appropriate course of action.

How long does it take to get results?

In most cases, results are available within a few days. If follow-up is needed, our team will contact you to discuss next steps and further care if necessary. Repeated testing is crucial to confirm decreases in blood lead levels, especially in children who have previously tested positive for elevated lead exposure.

Can adults get tested for lead exposure too?

Yes! Lead testing is available for adults as well—especially those who may be exposed to lead through work, hobbies, or their environment. The clinical manifestations of lead poisoning in adults can include symptoms such as abdominal pain, headaches, memory loss, and mood disorders, highlighting the importance of regular screening.

Do you accept insurance for lead testing?

Yes, we accept most major insurance plans, including Medicaid. For those without insurance, we also offer affordable self-pay options. It is crucial to follow up initial blood lead level screenings with confirmatory testing to ensure an accurate diagnosis, especially for children with elevated levels.

Do I need an appointment for lead testing?

No appointment is necessary! All of our locations accept walk-ins, or you can check in online to save your spot and reduce your wait time. Tests play a crucial role in determining lead exposure, and lead tests are essential for health and safety, as they measure the amount of lead in a person’s blood and help guide necessary follow-up actions.

Do I need to fast or prepare in any way before a drug test?

In most cases, you do not need to fast or take any special precautions before a drug test. However, for specific types of tests, our staff will provide you with any necessary instructions prior to the test.