The laboratory that tests the blood sample usually sends the results back to the doctor’s office. The timings of the results will depend on the type of test.Īccording to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), the actual blood draw usually takes less than 3 minutes, and the results can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few weeks to come back. Share on Pinterest The time it takes for results to arrive depends on the purpose of the blood test.ĭoctors use blood tests to check blood counts, cholesterol levels, and help diagnose nutrient deficiencies or medical conditions.