Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Marko and your health journey
About Marko
What is Marko, and how does it work?
Marko is an innovative health tool that takes your blood test results and turns them into practical, easy-to-understand strategies to optimise your health and wellness.
Marko uses advanced blood test analysis technology to deliver a personalised Marko report. The report includes the blood test analysis and an action plan. The action plan features nutrition, lifestyle, and supplements recommendations to move you closer to your health and wellness goals.
Marko uses advanced blood test analysis technology to deliver a personalised Marko report. The report includes the blood test analysis and an action plan. The action plan features nutrition, lifestyle, and supplements recommendations to move you closer to your health and wellness goals.
How is Marko different from getting a blood test through my GP?
Marko focuses on optimising your health and wellness. It is not a tool for diagnosing or monitoring medical conditions, disease, injury or illness. We conduct a more comprehensive analysis of your blood markers than a GP traditionally would, by looking at over 30 blood markers within key categories of health and providing steps to bring these into an optimal range. For example, where a GP may look at 1 iron marker and how it falls within a normal range, we look at 4 iron markers and how they fall within an optimal range.
While "normal" ranges are adequate for diagnostic purposes, this is not the same as optimal health. "Optimal" ranges narrow the focus on moving you closer to the best possible health benefits based on research and data from healthy individuals.
With this thorough overview, we can help you identify potential health concerns before they may develop into an illness. This informs an action plan featuring nutrition, lifestyle and supplement recommendations based on your health and wellness goals.
While "normal" ranges are adequate for diagnostic purposes, this is not the same as optimal health. "Optimal" ranges narrow the focus on moving you closer to the best possible health benefits based on research and data from healthy individuals.
With this thorough overview, we can help you identify potential health concerns before they may develop into an illness. This informs an action plan featuring nutrition, lifestyle and supplement recommendations based on your health and wellness goals.
Why should I have my blood test results analysed by Marko?
Being proactive with your health is the key to living well, and Marko makes it easy. By analysing your blood test results, Marko can help you identify potential health concerns early and will provide practical tools to optimise your health and wellness before problems might arise. Marko is about staying ahead, making informed choices, and taking control of your wellness journey.
Marko does not however, diagnose medical conditions, disease, injury or illness.
Marko does not however, diagnose medical conditions, disease, injury or illness.
Can Marko diagnose medical conditions based on my blood test results?
No, Marko does not diagnose medical conditions, disease, injury or illness. Marko's analysis and recommendations are not a substitute for medical guidance from a registered Health Practitioner.
However, if we see any test results that may require further investigation, we may recommend you consult a registered Health Practitioner. Our Terms of Service has more information about what we will do if this occurs.
However, if we see any test results that may require further investigation, we may recommend you consult a registered Health Practitioner. Our Terms of Service has more information about what we will do if this occurs.
What certifications does Marko have?
Marko has been developed alongside GPs, Nutritionists, and Naturopaths, and its analytical capabilities are backed by over 2,000 medical studies.
How Marko Works
How does Marko's analysis work?
Marko uses advanced blood test analysis technology to deliver a personalised Marko report, including the blood test analysis and an action plan based on the results of the analysis.
Marko's custom algorithms are based on biochemistry and blood diagnostics practices, which have been meticulously transformed into code to create Marko.
Marko's custom algorithms are based on biochemistry and blood diagnostics practices, which have been meticulously transformed into code to create Marko.
How are Marko's recommendations personalised?
Marko's recommendations are based on your blood test results using ranges applicable to your age and sex. Over 30 blood markers within key categories of health can be analysed and the combination of these provides your personalised plan. Everybody is unique!
What is the Marko overall health score?
The Marko Overall Health Score reflects how well your body is functioning. It is calculated by ranking blood markers according to their impact on your overall health and wellness. You will receive a score out of 100, with a high score indicating optimal health and wellness.
You will also get a score for each of the key categories of health to inform an action plan featuring nutrition, lifestyle, and supplement recommendations based on your health and wellness goals.
You will also get a score for each of the key categories of health to inform an action plan featuring nutrition, lifestyle, and supplement recommendations based on your health and wellness goals.
Does Marko provide blood testing?
No, we provide you with a self-request blood test form that you can either take to your nearest accredited blood lab or use to order your blood tests online via your blood lab's website. The blood lab will charge you for your blood draw and send the test results to your email. You can then upload your test results to your Marko account to be analysed.
You can also use any existing blood test results you have. To ensure your Marko report is accurate, we recommend using test results no older than 6 months. Simply upload your blood test results to your Marko account and we will carry out the analysis.
Please note, if you are using existing blood test results, Marko may not be able to generate a complete health score. You will be advised if any blood markers are missing and given the option to test these.
You can also use any existing blood test results you have. To ensure your Marko report is accurate, we recommend using test results no older than 6 months. Simply upload your blood test results to your Marko account and we will carry out the analysis.
Please note, if you are using existing blood test results, Marko may not be able to generate a complete health score. You will be advised if any blood markers are missing and given the option to test these.
Can I order the blood test from my doctor?
Marko will provide you with a self-request blood test form that you can either take to your nearest accredited blood lab or use to order your blood tests online via your blood lab’s website.
You will need to contact your GP or medical centre to confirm if your GP can order any of the blood tests for you.
Please note, if you do not use a Marko self-request blood test form, Marko may not be able to generate a complete health score. You will be advised if any blood markers are missing and given the option to test these.
You will need to contact your GP or medical centre to confirm if your GP can order any of the blood tests for you.
Please note, if you do not use a Marko self-request blood test form, Marko may not be able to generate a complete health score. You will be advised if any blood markers are missing and given the option to test these.
What happens after my blood test?
The blood lab will email your blood test results to you. These results may arrive in separate emails. You can upload your results to your Marko account as your results are received.
What if Marko tells me I am missing some blood test markers but I am sure I paid for these at the Blood Lab?
When you upload your blood results, Marko will let you know which blood markers are missing to complete the scores of various categories of health. If you have more results, keep uploading them. You can also view any missing blood markers under "Download your blood request form" in the Blood Tests section. If you think you have already paid for these tests, compare your lab receipt with your test results. For any missing results, contact your lab. Still unsure? Email us at [email protected].
Does Marko only analyse new blood test results?
No, Marko can also use any blood test results you have. To ensure your Marko report is accurate, we recommend only using test results from the last 6 months. Simply upload your blood test results to your Marko account and we will carry out the analysis.
How long will it take to receive my Marko report?
It generally can take up to 5 days to receive your blood test results from the blood lab. Your Marko report will be generated approximately 24 hours after you upload your results. Marko will send you an email to advise you your Marko report is ready to view.
Sometimes, blood labs can take longer to process your results. If you do not receive your results from your blood lab within 7 days, we suggest you contact your lab and follow up.
Sometimes, blood labs can take longer to process your results. If you do not receive your results from your blood lab within 7 days, we suggest you contact your lab and follow up.
How often will I need to get my blood tested?
Members are encouraged to do a follow-up blood test after 3 months of following their action plan to see how the recommendations are moving you closer to your health and wellness goals. This follow-up blood test only needs to include blood markers relating to any non-optimal results.
Members are also encouraged to do an annual blood test including all blood markers.
Remember, Marko is an annual membership, allowing members to have multiple blood tests analysed over that year.
Members are also encouraged to do an annual blood test including all blood markers.
Remember, Marko is an annual membership, allowing members to have multiple blood tests analysed over that year.
Using Marko
Do I need to test all 30 blood markers?
We can analyse over 30 blood markers within key categories of health, but you can choose to prioritise and only test for certain health categories. This option is available to you when you download a blood request form. Your Marko membership gives you access to the platform for a year, allowing you to focus on different categories over the year.
Can Marko analyse historical blood test data?
Marko can also use any existing blood test results you have. To ensure your Marko report is accurate, we recommend only using test results from the last 6 months. Simply upload your blood test results to your Marko account and we will carry out the analysis.
Please note, if you are using existing blood test results, Marko may not be able to generate a complete health score. You will be advised if any blood markers are missing and given the option to test these.
Please note, if you are using existing blood test results, Marko may not be able to generate a complete health score. You will be advised if any blood markers are missing and given the option to test these.
Can I upload my blood test results manually?
Yes, you can. Go to 'Upload your blood results' in your Marko account and choose to enter your test results manually.
I'm not allowed to donate blood. Can I still use Marko?
Yes, your blood is only used for analysis and not donated. Because Marko does not provide blood testing, please consult your blood lab if you have any questions or concerns about the blood testing process.
Do I need to buy the supplements from Marko's market?
No, the purchase of supplements is optional. In addition to supplement recommendations, your Marko report will also provide dietary and lifestyle recommendations to optimise your health and wellness which you may prefer to follow.
Your Marko report may prioritise supplements recommendations if our analysis suggests that supplements will better move you closer to your health and wellness goals.
If you choose to purchase supplements, you can do so from any supplier. Note, that if you purchase the supplements from another supplier, we recommend you check the dosage and quality of ingredients align with the supplements recommendations in your Marko report. Our Terms of Service has more information about what you are responsible for when following Marko's recommendations.
Your Marko report may prioritise supplements recommendations if our analysis suggests that supplements will better move you closer to your health and wellness goals.
If you choose to purchase supplements, you can do so from any supplier. Note, that if you purchase the supplements from another supplier, we recommend you check the dosage and quality of ingredients align with the supplements recommendations in your Marko report. Our Terms of Service has more information about what you are responsible for when following Marko's recommendations.
What's the difference between natural and synthetic supplements?
The difference between natural and synthetic forms of supplements lies in their origins and how the body absorbs them. Natural supplements come from whole food sources, making them more recognisable and easier for the body to use. Synthetic supplements, on the other hand, are lab-created and may not always be as effective.
Getting the right dose and form of a nutrient is key. Too much or too little can affect how well it works in your body, so quality supplements and precision matter.
Getting the right dose and form of a nutrient is key. Too much or too little can affect how well it works in your body, so quality supplements and precision matter.
Does the dose of supplements I take matter?
Getting the right dose and form of a nutrient is key. Too much or too little can affect how well it works in your body, so quality supplements and precision matter.
Will I need to consult a doctor after using Marko?
Marko focuses on optimising your health and wellness. Marko's analysis and recommendations are not a substitute for medical guidance from a registered Health Practitioner.
If we see any test results that need further investigation, we may recommend you consult a registered Health Practitioner. Our Terms of Service has more information about what we will do if this occurs.
If we see any test results that need further investigation, we may recommend you consult a registered Health Practitioner. Our Terms of Service has more information about what we will do if this occurs.
Are Marko services suitable for children's blood tests?
Marko is suitable for everybody aged 16 years and over.
Can I get support if I don't understand my Marko report?
Yes, we offer 15-minute or 30-minute consultations with Marko's director and co-founder Vinka Wong. Vinka is recognised as one of New Zealand's leading authorities in biochemistry and blood diagnostics. We also offer consultations with Nutritionists. Note however, consultations will be an additional cost.
Medical Integration
Does Marko offer consultations with health practitioners?
Marko does not currently offer consultations with registered Health Practitioners. We recommend seeking advice from your GP or another suitable registered Health Practitioner if you have any existing health conditions and have concerns about the impact of following your Marko action plan.
Can doctors access my Marko report through Marko's platform?
No, only you have access to your Marko reports. Our Privacy Statement has more information about how Marko collects, stores, uses and shares your personal information.
Will Marko alert me to any findings of concern in the analysis?
Marko focuses on optimising your health and wellness. Marko does not diagnose or analyse for medical conditions, disease, injury or illness.
However, if we see any test results that need further investigation, we may recommend you consult a registered Health Practitioner. Our Terms of Service has more information about what we will do if this occurs.
However, if we see any test results that need further investigation, we may recommend you consult a registered Health Practitioner. Our Terms of Service has more information about what we will do if this occurs.
Does Marko integrate with my existing electronic health records?
No, Marko does not integrate with any of your existing electronic health records. Our Privacy Statement has more information about how Marko collects, stores, uses and shares your personal information.
Privacy and Security
How does Marko protect my personal and health information?
We take the protection of your personal and health information very seriously. Your data is encrypted both during transmission and while stored, using industry-standard encryption protocols. Our Privacy Statement can be found here.
Does Marko share my data with third parties?
No, we do not share your data with third parties unless we are specifically authorised or legally obliged to do so. Our Privacy Statement has more information about how Marko collects, stores, uses and shares your personal information.
Can I delete my Marko account and data at any time?
Yes, you can cancel your Marko membership by logging in to your Marko account. Click on your name/profile image on the top right of the page. You can then click 'Profile' where you will see the option to delete your membership.
Once your account is deleted, all of its resources and data will be permanently deleted. Our Privacy Statement has more information about how Marko stores and retains your personal information.
Once your account is deleted, all of its resources and data will be permanently deleted. Our Privacy Statement has more information about how Marko stores and retains your personal information.
Can I sign my relatives or friends up to Marko on their behalf?
Individuals need to join Marko themselves. However, to make it easy for relatives or friends to make the decision to join, you can purchase a Family/Friends membership package.
Alternatively, you can purchase a multipack of memberships to share with relatives, friends, work colleagues or whoever you wish to give the gift of Marko to.
Alternatively, you can purchase a multipack of memberships to share with relatives, friends, work colleagues or whoever you wish to give the gift of Marko to.
Cost and Payment
How much does Marko cost?
$198 NZD for an annual membership. This includes access to your Marko account for a full year and blood test analyses and corresponding action plans (including follow-up) throughout the full year. This does not include the costs of blood tests.
How much does the blood test cost?
Your blood lab sets the price of a blood draw, which is influenced by the number of blood markers you want tested. We can analyse over 30 blood markers within key categories of health, but you can choose to prioritise and only test for certain categories. This will reduce the cost of your blood test and enable you to focus on different categories of your health during your annual membership.
How do I update or cancel my Marko membership?
You can update or cancel your Marko membership by logging in to your Marko account. Click on your name/profile image on the top right of the page. You can then click 'Profile' where you will see options to both update or delete your account.
Does Marko offer a free demo account?
Yes, Marko does off a free demo account for 7 days. Simply click 'Try Demo' on the home page to get started. You can upgrade your demo account to an annual membership at any time.
Can I give a Marko membership as a gift?
Yes, there are a couple of different ways you can share the gift of Marko.
1. Gift voucher: Your recipient will receive an email with a voucher code directly from Marko.
2. Multipack: including discounted rates. You can purchase from 4 to 50 memberships to share with friends, family and colleagues - you choose. As the purchaser, you will receive an email with codes to send to each of your recipients.
1. Gift voucher: Your recipient will receive an email with a voucher code directly from Marko.
2. Multipack: including discounted rates. You can purchase from 4 to 50 memberships to share with friends, family and colleagues - you choose. As the purchaser, you will receive an email with codes to send to each of your recipients.
Does Marko offer family or friends membership offers?
Yes, we offer a Family/Friends membership for 4 adults (aged 16 years and over) at a cost of $700 NZD.
Does Marko offer a discount for corporate or large groups?
Yes, there are a couple of different ways to share Marko with a large group.
1. Multipack, including a 15% discount: You can purchase from 5 to 50 memberships to share with friends, family and colleagues - you choose. As the purchaser, you will receive an email with codes to send to each of your recipients.
2. If you want to purchase 50+ memberships, email us at [email protected].
1. Multipack, including a 15% discount: You can purchase from 5 to 50 memberships to share with friends, family and colleagues - you choose. As the purchaser, you will receive an email with codes to send to each of your recipients.
2. If you want to purchase 50+ memberships, email us at [email protected].
How can I provide feedback or make a complaint?
Remarkable customer service is at the heart of Marko. You can approach the Marko Team with any feedback or complaints you might have about our services at any time. Complaints are taken seriously by Marko. You can simply email us at [email protected]. Our Complaints Policy has more information about how Marko will address your feedback or complaints.
If I am a former member, can I restart my membership?
Yes, you can restart your membership at any time. However, if you had deleted your account, all its data has been permanently deleted so your previous blood test results and Marko reports will not be accessible. Our Privacy Statement has more information about how Marko stores and retains your personal information. If your membership has simply lapsed, click the "Renew now" button on your profile page or on the main dashboard after logging in.
Does Marko accept insurance?
No. If your insurer has agreed to pay for your Marko membership, please deal directly with your insurer for a reimbursement of your annual membership fee.
Specialty Use Cases
Will Marko consider my existing medical conditions or genetic information in the analysis?
Marko's recommendations are based on your blood test results using ranges applicable to your age and sex. The analysis does not take into account your existing medical conditions or genetic information. We recommend seeking advice from your GP or another suitable registered Health Practitioner if you have any existing health conditions and have concerns about the impact of following your Marko action plan.
Is Marko suitable for athletes or performance monitoring?
Yes, Marko is all about supporting everybody to reach optimal levels of health and wellness and perform at their best!
Can Marko provide insights for people managing chronic conditions?
Marko does not diagnose, analyse or treat specific medical conditions, disease, injury or illness. However, Marko does focus on optimising your health and wellness and this foundation may help support your overall health. We recommend seeking advice from your GP or another suitable registered Health Practitioner if you have any existing health conditions and have concerns about the impact of following your Marko action plan.
Does Marko support analysis for pregnant women?
Marko is not suitable for use during pregnancy. Pregnancy alters blood cell levels and areas such as immune health, which affects the accuracy of the formulas used to inform your Marko report. Our Terms of Service has more information about eligibility to join Marko.
Can Marko help with weight management goals?
Marko analyses your metabolism which is one of many factors that may influence your weight. If this is influencing your weight, then your Marko action plan may be helpful with your weight management goals.
Weight management takes time and effort to be successful and is unique to each individual. Marko is not a weight management programme specifically, but focuses on optimising your overall health and wellness.
Weight management takes time and effort to be successful and is unique to each individual. Marko is not a weight management programme specifically, but focuses on optimising your overall health and wellness.
Are Marko's insights relevant for people with specific diets?
Marko's recommendations are based on your blood test results using ranges applicable to your age and sex. The analysis does not take into account your specific allergies or dietary requirements. This means your Marko action plan may recommend foods or supplements that do not suit your requirements. In such instances, please avoid these foods. Our Terms of Service has more information about what you are responsible for when following Marko's recommendations.
Troubleshooting and Support
What happens if I encounter a technical issue?
If you encounter a technical issue, and our FAQ section does not provide the answer, simply navigate to the 'Support' section in the main menu, and submit a support request.
I've forgotten my password, how can I access my Marko account?
On the log in page, simply click the 'Forgot my password?' link. This will take you to a page where you can enter your email to receive a password reset.
Is Marko available internationally?
Yes, you can access your Marko account from anywhere in the world. However, the self-request blood form is at present only set up for New Zealand members to take to blood labs in New Zealand. Marko's services are provided in New Zealand and are subject to the laws of New Zealand.
What languages does Marko support?
For now, English.
I can't see my blood test results and/or my Marko report, where are they?
Generally, it can take up to 5 days to receive your blood test results from the blood lab and you then need to upload them to your Marko account. Your Marko report will then be generated approximately 24 hours after your results are uploaded.
Sometimes, blood labs can take longer to process your results. If you do not receive your results from your blood lab within 7 days, we suggest you contact your lab and follow up.
Sometimes, blood labs can take longer to process your results. If you do not receive your results from your blood lab within 7 days, we suggest you contact your lab and follow up.
How can I contact customer support?
You can email us at [email protected].
Is there a feedback system for improving the platform?
Yes, we welcome feedback and are dedicated to making our platform usable for everyone. You can email us at [email protected]. Our Complaints Policy has more information about how Marko will address your feedback or complaints.
Can I access my analysis on mobile devices?
Yes, you can access the full Marko platform on your mobile device. All the same functions and analysis are available, with the additional option to upload your blood results using your phone's camera.
Is the platform accessible to people with disabilities?
Yes, we are committed to making our platform accessible to all members, including people with disabilities. Our website follows Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 standards.
We regularly test our platform with various assistive technologies. If you encounter any accessibility challenges or have specific needs, please contact our support team at [email protected].
We welcome feedback and are dedicated to making our platform usable for everyone.
We regularly test our platform with various assistive technologies. If you encounter any accessibility challenges or have specific needs, please contact our support team at [email protected].
We welcome feedback and are dedicated to making our platform usable for everyone.
Can I get my analysis in a printable format?
Yes, we realise that some of us love printed copies. You will be able to download your Marko action plan and a copy of your blood test results to print.