Specimen Collection

1. What types of samples are tested?
2. How are samples collected?
3. What do I need to bring to my specimen collection appointment?
4. Can samples be taken from a recently deceased individual?

1. What types of samples are tested?
Orchid Cellmark collects cheek swab samples. These are painless and non-invasive and can be collected within a matter of minutes.

2. How are samples collected?
For a legal test, you may have your samples taken at one of our 5000 specimen collection sites or for an at-home test, you may take your own samples at home using the Orchid Cellmark specimen collection kit.

3. What do I need to bring to my specimen collection appointment?
If your samples are being collected for a legal test, you will need to attend one of our 5000 specimen collection sites. You will need to bring government-issued photo identification such as a driver’s license. There is no fee for specimen collection.

4. Can samples be taken from a recently deceased individual?
As long as the next-of-kin provides authorization to obtain and test a sample, it is possible to test a deceased individual. Orchid Cellmark will provide specimen collection kits to obtain cheek swabs and pulled hair samples. These samples can be collected by the funeral home or coroner.