Procedures
To request our DNA banking service, simply fill out our online order form or call 1-888-362-2592. One of our caring, knowledgeable case managers will evaluate your situation based on the information you provide and verify the test options that are best for you.
Collection Appointments
After we receive your information, we will send you a kit for home DNA collection. If you would like to bank your DNA for a future legal purpose, we will schedule your sample collection appointment at a local laboratory or clinic that is convenient for you.
Patient Identification for Chain of Custody
If you want to use your banked DNA samples for a future legal purpose, such as estate management, you will need to use the Chain of Custody option. Chain of custody is a documentation process in order to make test results legally admissible (accepted by courts and other government agencies). Those banking their DNA will be asked to do the following when they come to their appointments:
- Present government-issued identification for the adults
- Present one of the following for minors: birth certificate, social security card, crib card, or shot record
- Be photographed and fingerprinted
- Complete a Client Identification and Consent Form (the minor’s consent form should be signed by the legal guardian)
Authority to Retrieve DNA Samples
Those signing the Client Identification and Consent Form also will list the persons authorized to retrieve the banked DNA samples. The laboratory will release the DNA samples only to those included in this list.
Sample Collection
DNA samples are collected using buccal swabs. The sample collector rubs a cotton-like swab against the inside of the patient’s cheek to collect loose cells. He/she then packages the samples and seals them with tamper tape. When our laboratory receives the samples, we first check for any evidence of tampering to make sure that the chain of custody has been strictly observed.
DNA Banking in Our Laboratory
We store the DNA samples in a secure, climate-controlled environment in our laboratory. The DNA samples will be stable for at least 15 years.
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