Heritage ID Testing
Overview
Procedure and Results
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General
Specimen Collection
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Results
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Orchid utilizes a network of over 5000 collection sites worldwide.
Orchid utilizes a network of over 5000 collection sites worldwide.
Accreditations
Orchid Cellmark holds multiple accreditations from various organizations and adheres to the standards of each accrediting organization. Compliance by our laboratories to these accreditation requirements provides assurance to our clients that test results provided by Orchid Cellmark are of the highest quality. Clink on the links above to learn more about our accreditations.
Orchid Cellmark holds multiple accreditations from various organizations and adheres to the standards of each accrediting organization. Compliance by our laboratories to these accreditation requirements provides assurance to our clients that test results provided by Orchid Cellmark are of the highest quality. Clink on the links above to learn more about our accreditations.
Heritage ID Testing
Testing Procedure
The testing procedure involves the collection of a biological sample from an individual. If the test is being completed on an ante-mortem basis (i.e. before death), a sample will be collected from the individual at one of our 5000 collection sites worldwide. The procedure also involves a strict Chain of Custody procedure which includes:
- Provision of government issued identification
- A photograph of each tested party
- Provision of a signature sample
If the test is being conducted post-mortem, the test can be conducted using an autopsy or pathology sample from the deceased or the sample can be collected by funeral service providers at a funeral home before cremation or burial takes place. It is preferable that the specimen collection procedures takes place before the body is embalmed if possible. If there is a chance that the DNA test result will need to be used in a legal matter, a strict Chain of Custody should be maintained for all specimen collection. This includes collection of the following information:
- Consent of the donor’s legal next-of-kin
- Pathology or Toe Tag identification number
- Funeral Home Case number
Testing Steps
A DNA test involves essentially 3 steps:
1. SPECIMEN COLLECTION
Once we have received your order, our Scheduling Department will contact the requesting party to arrange for a specimen collection appointment at one of our 5000 convenient specimen collection sites or to make arrangements to have a pathology, autopsy or post-mortem sample shipped to us.
2. LABORATORY TESTING
Once the samples are received by our laboratory, the following steps occur:
- Samples are assigned a unique bar code and are logged into our laboratory database
- Samples and paperwork are examined for completeness
- Samples are analyzed
- DNA profiles are triple checked
- Reports are generated
- Final report is verified by Ph.D. Laboratory Director
3. DISTRIBUTION OF RESULTS
Upon completion of the test, the Heritage ID card will be distributed to the requesting party.
Results
A Heritage ID test will be completed within 5-7 business days from the date of receipt of the sample. A Heritage ID card will consist of the following:
- Name of Tested Party
- Date of Birth
- Date of Report
- A listing of the individual DNA profile
- FTA Card upon which the sample is stored until further use if needed.