Hemoglobin and Hematocrit (H&H) Test
This test measures both hemoglobin and hematocrit from a whole blood sample. Quest describes it as the usual method for determining anemia and for calculating other red blood cell indices.
About this panel
Hemoglobin is the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells, and hematocrit is the proportion of blood made up of red blood cells. Measured together, Quest describes them as the standard way of determining anemia, and the two values are also used to calculate other red blood cell indices.
The whole blood sample is collected in an EDTA (lavender-top) tube and analyzed using electronic cell sizing, cytometry, and microscopy. Quest lists this test under several names, including H&HCT, HCT and HGB, and H and H, which all refer to the same pair of measurements.
Who might consider this panel?
- Ordering the pair together, rather than either value alone, is described by Quest as the standard approach.
Test details
| Quest code | 7998 |
|---|---|
| Methodology | Electronic Cell, Sizing/Cytometry/Microscopy |
| Sample type | Whole blood |
| Collection | Quest patient service center |
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Additional details
What this test looks at
The test reports two values from the same whole blood sample: hemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen in red blood cells, and hematocrit, the proportion of blood volume made up of red blood cells. Quest describes this pairing as the standard method for determining anemia.
How it's often used alongside other tests
Because hemoglobin and hematocrit are also used to calculate other red blood cell indices, this test is frequently ordered as part of a broader blood count rather than on its own.
Order online and a physician order is included — no doctor's visit and no insurance needed. Your sample is collected at a Quest Diagnostics patient service center.
Laboratory results should always be interpreted by a licensed clinician who knows your health history. This page is information about a test, not medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
What does this test measure?
It measures hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells, and hematocrit, the proportion of blood made up of red blood cells, from the same whole blood sample.
How is the sample collected?
Through a routine blood draw, collected in an EDTA (lavender-top) tube for whole blood testing.
Do I need to prepare for this test?
No preparation instructions are listed for this test, though people follow any instructions their ordering clinician provides.
What other names does this test go by?
Quest lists it under names including H&HCT, HCT and HGB, HGB & HCT, and H and H, which all refer to the same pair of measurements.
Why are hemoglobin and hematocrit tested together?
Quest describes this pairing as the standard method for determining anemia, and the two values are also used to calculate other red blood cell indices.
How much is a Hemoglobin and Hematocrit Panel test?
$5, paid once at checkout. The price includes the physician's order this test requires and sample collection at a Quest patient service center.