We are now able to offer a non-invasive PreNatal Paternity Test to confirm/deny paternity of a child.  Below are some of the most common questions I have received via phone recently regarding the non-invasive method.

How accurate is the test?

Greater than 99.9% accuracy is what to expect in your results. The 99.9% refers to the probability that the alleged father contains the genetic markers required of the biological father when compared with over 6,000 random individuals. This conclusion is based on the testing results obtained from analyzing 317,000 individual DNA markers.

How early can testing be performed? What happens if I order earlier than this?

Testing can be performed as early as 9 weeks gestation. If testing is ordered earlier than 9 weeks there is a increased chance that there will not be a high enough fraction of fetal DNA in the maternal plasma.

When will I get results?

Within 5 business days from the time the laboratory receives the sample.  FYI, Blood samples should never be placed in a freezer. Reports are then issues electronically and can be faxed and/or emailed.

Where is the actual analysis performed?

All samples are analyzed at a CLIA-certified laboratory in the United States.  Reports are then issued electronically.

What is required to perform testing?

A blood draw from the mother and from all alleged fathers. Collection instructions and forms are provided by your local DNA collector.  Ask you doctor to set up the blood draw either in his office so that the local DNA collector can seal and ship samples to the laboratory via clinical pak. 

Is this test covered by insurance?

No - and the reason an insurance company would not cover a paternity test (whether done prenatally, or after the baby is born) is that paternity of a child is not considered medically relevant. 

This is fairly new technology and therefore is somewhat more expensive than the traditional methods of PreNatal Paternity tests.  Payment for the Prenatal Test is made directly to the DNA collector - your doctor may have additional fees for the blood draw on yourself and the alleged father.   The PreNatal Paternity test includes only one alleged father in the initial cost.  Additional alleged fathers may be done if first man tested is not the biological father.