Changes to Requests for Haemoglobin DNA Studies
Changes to Requests for Haemoglobin DNA Studies
When requesting thalassaemia or other haemoglobinopathy investigations, please include either:
- “Haemoglobin DNA studies where required”, or
- “+/− Hb DNA studies”
on the original request form.
Why is this required?
Including DNA studies on the initial request form allows PathWest to proceed with genetic testing, where clinically indicated, following initial haematology testing.
PathWest is required to comply with the National Pathology Accreditation Advisory Council (NPAAC) Requirements for Medical Testing for Human Genetic Variation. These national standards require that patient consent is obtained before genetic testing can be undertaken.
Including DNA studies on the request form, together with the patient's presentation for specimen collection, provides documented evidence of consent.
What happens if “DNA studies” is not specified on the request form?
If DNA studies are not specified on the original request form, samples can no longer be automatically referred to Diagnostic Genomics for testing.
Where genetic testing may be appropriate, the Haematology report will include a recommendation for DNA studies. A new request will then be required before testing can proceed.
Key action:
To avoid delays and enable follow-on testing when clinically indicated, please include “Haemoglobin DNA studies where required” (or “+/− Hb DNA studies”) on all requests for thalassaemia and other haemoglobinopathy investigations.