Clear Answers About DNA Testing
DNA Testing Frequently Asked Questions
Learn what to expect from collection, the difference between legal and informational testing, and how results are handled. Call MedScreens if your situation involves special circumstances.
Quick Facts
- Walk-ins welcome Monday–Friday, 8 AM–5 PM
- Most collections use painless cheek swabs
- Testing is available for children and adults
- Remote collection may be arranged when needed
No Appointment Necessary
Walk-ins are welcome at our facility during regular business hours. If participants will be collected in different cities, a special specimen may be needed, or the case involves a deceased person, call before visiting.
Common Questions
Do I need an appointment, and how long does collection take?
No appointment is needed at our facility during regular business hours, Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The swabbing takes only a few minutes, but allow additional time for identification, paperwork and any walk-in wait.
How are DNA samples collected, and is there a minimum age?
Most collections use painless buccal swabs rubbed inside the cheek. The process is non-invasive and can be performed on newborns, children and adults—there is no minimum age.
What is the difference between legal and informational DNA testing?
A legal test uses verified identification, witnessed collection, photographs and documented chain-of-custody procedures so the report may be used for legal or official purposes. An informational or peace-of-mind test does not use the same legal collection process and should not be used for court, custody, child support, immigration or other official matters.
Do all participants have to be collected together?
No. Participants can often be collected at different times or locations, including in another city or state. Call MedScreens before starting so every collection is connected to the correct case and follows the required process.
Does the mother have to participate, and what if possible fathers are related?
The mother is not always required. However, tell MedScreens if possible fathers are brothers or closely related. Depending on the family relationship and initial results, the laboratory may recommend testing the mother, another relative or additional genetic markers.
Can testing be done if someone is deceased, unavailable or needs a special specimen?
It may be possible through an approved stored or postmortem specimen, another specimen type or relationship testing with close biological relatives. These cases require laboratory review before collection, so call MedScreens to discuss what specimens and participants are available.
What should I bring, and can the results be used in court?
Adults should bring a current government-issued photo ID. Documentation for minors and special cases varies. Results may be used for legal purposes when the case is ordered and collected with the required identification and chain-of-custody procedures. Tell MedScreens before collection if the report may be needed for any official purpose.
How and when will I receive the results?
Turnaround begins after the laboratory receives acceptable specimens from all required participants and varies by test type or special circumstances. Results are released only to authorized recipients using the delivery method established for the case; they are not provided by telephone. The report states whether a tested person is excluded or not excluded and provides the applicable statistical result.
Have a Special Situation?
Relationship testing, deceased-person cases, special specimens, closely related possible fathers and multi-location collections may require laboratory review. Call before collecting or submitting any specimen.
Still Have Questions About DNA Testing?
Call MedScreens and our staff will help you choose the correct testing and collection process.
CALL 601-939-3030