Austin Laboratory Correspondence and Bulletins
Also view South Texas Laboratory Correspondence and Bulletins
DSHS Austin Laboratory Christmas and New Year’s Holiday Closure Reminder
With the exception of Newborn Screening and Rabies testing, the DSHS Austin Laboratory will be closed, and testing will not occur Tuesday, 12/24/2024, Wednesday, 12/25/2024, and Thursday, 12/26/2024. Testing services will resume as normal, Friday, 12/27/2024.
- The Laboratory will be closed on New Year’s Day, Wednesday 01/01/2025.
All submitters are responsible for the timely and appropriate shipping of specimens to the Laboratory.
See below for more details on selected testing.
Newborn Screening (NBS)
Christmas Closure is Tuesday, 12/24/2024 and Wednesday, 12/25/2024. Testing will resume Thursday, 12/26/2024.
New Year’s Closure is Wednesday, 01/01/2025. Testing will resume Thursday, 01/02/2025.
- We will test NBS specimens received and accessioned on Monday, 12/23/2024 and Tuesday, 12/31/2024.
- We will notify healthcare providers of critical-level preliminary presumptive positive results on Tuesday, 12/24/2024 (Christmas Eve).
Submission Reminders
- DO NOT DELAY the collection or shipment of newborn screening specimens.
- Ship dried specimens within 24 hours of collection. If mail or courier services are unavailable, ship as soon as possible.
- DSHS recommends shipping specimens using an overnight or trackable service such as USPS Priority Mail, FedEx, and UPS.
Clinical Chemistry
Christmas Closure is Tuesday, 12/24/2024 through Thursday, 12/26/24. Testing will resume Friday, 12/27/2024.
New Year’s Closure is Wednesday, 01/01/2025. Testing will resume Thursday, 01/02/2025.
- Total hemoglobin, lead, glucose, and lipid/cholesterol specimens must be received by 12:00 p.m. on Monday, 12/23/2024 to complete testing before the Holiday closure.
- DO NOT ship cholesterol, lipid profile, or glucose specimens on Friday, 12/27/2024.
Submission Reminders
- Specimens submitted for lead and total hemoglobin testing must be received within 14 days of collection.
- Specimens submitted for glucose, lipid panel, and cholesterol testing must be received according to the specimen submission guidelines available at
Laboratory Testing Services Manual - Guidelines for Specimen Shipping and Mailing | Texas DSHS.
Environmental Science
- If you require any priority analysis during the holiday period, please reach out to envsciadmin@dshs.texas.gov.
Microbiology
Christmas Closure is Tuesday 12/24/2024 through Thursday 12/26/2024. Testing will resume Friday 12/27/2024.
New Year’s Closure is Wednesday 01/01/2025. Testing will resume Thursday 01/02/2025.
Rabies Specimens
- We will test specimens received before 11:00 a.m. Monday, 12/23/2024 the same day.
- Results will be available by 5:00 p.m.
- We will test specimens received after 11:00 a.m. Monday, 12/23/2024 on Tuesday, 12/24/2024.
- We will notify submitters of positive results by 12:00 p.m. Preliminary results will be available by 12:00 p.m., if requested.
- Final results will be available to submitters on Friday, 12/27/2024 by 5:00 p.m.
- Emergency testing—only by prior arrangement with Rabies testing staff—will be available: Tuesday, 12/24/2024, Thursday, 12/26/24; and Wednesday, 01/01/2025.
- Call 512-776-7595 before 4:00 p.m. of the previous day to discuss.
- Emergency testing is not available on Wednesday, 12/25/2024.
- Specimen receipt by 8:00 a.m. must be guaranteed to ensure same day testing and preliminary results.
- DO NOT ship specimens for delivery Tuesday, 12/24/2024 through Thursday, 12/26/2024 or Wednesday, 01/01/2025. Store specimens at 2ºC–8ºC until shipping is possible.
- All other specimens will be tested on Friday, 12/27/2024.
Tuberculosis (TB) Specimens
- The TB Lab must receive critical specimens for AFB Smear and NAA testing by 8:30 a.m., Monday, 12/23/2024 for expedited AFB Smear and NAA test results before the Christmas holiday.
- DO NOT ship specimens for delivery on Tuesday, 12/24/2024 through Thursday, 12/26/2024.
- Refrigerate specimens collected during this period until shipping is possible.
- Call 512-776-7342 before 9:00 a.m., Monday, 12/23/2024 for expedited test requests.
Candida auris Swab Specimens
- Do not ship swabs for delivery on Monday, 12/23/2024 through Wednesday, 1/1/2025.
- Please remember that swabs must be received within 72 hours of collection.
Carbapenem Resistant Organisms Swab Specimens
- Do not collect or ship swabs from Monday, 12/23/2024 through Friday 12/27/2024.
- Do not ship swabs for delivery on Wednesday, 1/1/2025.
Neisseria gonorrhoeae Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Specimens
- Do not collect or ship swabs from Monday, 12/23/2024 through Thursday, 12/26/2024.
Bacteriology Water Samples
- Do not ship for delivery or drop off samples from Monday, 12/23/2024 to Friday, 12/27/2024.
- We will accept water samples on Monday, 12/30/2024.
- Do not ship for delivery or drop off samples on Tuesday, 12/31/2024 or Wednesday, 01/01/2025.
- Our regular specimen acceptance schedule will resume on Thursday, 01/02/2025.
All Other Microbiology Specimens or Samples
- Do not ship specimens for delivery between Tuesday, 12/24/2024 and Thursday, 12/26/2024.
- Store specimens collected during this time at an appropriate temperature (e.g., -70°C) or below, for clinical virology samples.
- No tests will be performed from Tuesday, 12/24/2024 to Thursday, 12/26/2024.
Ordering Laboratory Supplies
Newborn Screening Requests
- Priority overnight orders received by 12:00 p.m. Monday, 12/23/2024 will be processed and shipped via FedEx Priority Overnight.
- Standard orders received by 12:00 p.m. Monday, 12/23/2024 will be processed and shipped via FedEx Ground.
- Orders received after 12:00 p.m. on Monday, 12/23/2024 through Thursday, 12/26/2024 will be processed on Friday, 12/27/2024.
Texas Health Steps/PKU/TB/HIV/C. auris/CRO/GC AST Courier Supply Requests
- Orders received on Monday, 12/23/2024 will be audited, issued, and shipped via FedEx Ground on Friday, 12/27/2024.
- Orders received on Tuesday 12/31/2024 will be audited, issued, and shipped on Thursday 01/02/2024 via FedEx Ground.
***Per FedEx website, FedEx Ground will be closed Wednesday, 12/25/2024. FedEx Ground will also be closed Wednesday, 01/01/2025.***
Questions?
Clinical Chemistry: ClinicalChemistry@dshs.texas.gov
Clinical Chemistry General Inquiries: 512-776-6236
Container Preparation: ContainerPrepGroup@dshs.texas.gov
Environmental Chemistry Unit: EnvSciAdmin@dshs.texas.gov
Microbiology Unit: Lab.Microbiology@dshs.texas.gov
Microbiology General Inquiries: 512-776-7599
Newborn Screening General Inquiries: 512-776-7333
Newborn Screening: NewbornScreeningLab@dshs.texas.gov
Specimen Submission: LabInfo@dshs.texas.gov
Posted December 11, 2024
DSHS Austin Laboratory Thanksgiving Holiday Closure Reminder
With the exception of Newborn Screening and Rabies testing, the DSHS Austin Laboratory will be closed, and no testing will occur Thursday, 11/28/2024 through Saturday, 11/30/2024. The DSHS Laboratory is completely closed on Sundays. Testing services will resume as normal, Monday, 12/02/2024.
See below for more details on selected testing.
Newborn Screening (NBS)
-
The Newborn Screening Laboratory will be closed Thanksgiving Day, Thursday 11/28/2024 and will resume testing on Friday, 11/29/2024.
-
DO NOT DELAY collection or shipment of newborn screening specimens.
-
Ship dried specimens within 24 hours of collection. If mail or courier services are unavailable, ship as soon as possible.
-
DSHS recommends shipping specimens using an overnight or trackable service like USPS Priority Mail, FedEx, and UPS.
Clinical Chemistry
-
Total hemoglobin, lead, glucose, and lipid/cholesterol specimens must be received by Wednesday, 11/27/2024 to complete testing before the holiday closure.
-
DO NOT ship cholesterol, lipid profile, or glucose specimens on Fridays or on the day before a state-observed holiday.
Microbiology
Rabies Specimens
-
Rabies specimens received after 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, 11/27/2024 will be tested Friday, 11/29/2024. Submitters will be notified of positive results by 12:00 p.m. Friday.
All other results will be available Monday 12/02/2024.
-
Emergency testing will be available Friday, 11/29/2024 and Saturday, 11/30/2024 only by prior arrangement with Rabies testing staff. Call 512-776-7595 before 4:00 p.m. Wednesday, 11/27/2024 to discuss.
Specimen receipt must be guaranteed by 8:00 a.m. the morning of testing. Preliminary results will be called out as soon as emergency testing is completed. Final results will be available Monday 12/02/2024.
-
All other specimens will be tested on Monday, 12/02/2024, and results will be available by 5:00 p.m.
Tuberculosis (TB) Specimens
-
Do not ship specimens for delivery between Thursday, 11/28/2024 and Saturday, 11/30/2024.
Refrigerate specimens collected during this period until shipping is possible.
-
Ensure critical AFB Smear and NAA for M. tuberculosis specimens are delivered by 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, 11/27/2024.
-
Call 512-776-7342 before 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, 11/27/2024 for expedited test requests.
Candida auris Swab Specimens
-
Do not collect or ship swabs for delivery from Tuesday, 11/26/2024 to Saturday, 11/30/2024.
-
Please remember that swabs must be received within 72 hours of collection.
Carbapenem Resistant Organisms Swab Specimens
-
Do not collect or ship swabs from Tuesday, 11/26/2024 to Saturday, 11/30/2024.
Neisseria gonorrhoeae Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Specimens
-
Do not collect or ship swabs from Tuesday, 11/26/2024 to Saturday, 11/30/2024.
Bacteriology Water Samples
-
Water samples will not be accepted at DSHS Laboratory from Wednesday, 11/27/2024 to Saturday, 11/30/2024.
All Other Microbiology Specimens or Samples
-
Do not ship specimens for delivery between Thursday, 11/28/2024 and Sunday, 12/01/2024. Store specimens collected during this time at an appropriate temperature (e.g. -70°C or below for clinical virology samples).
-
No testing will be performed from Thursday, 11/28/2024 to Sunday, 12/01/2024.
Ordering Laboratory Supplies
Newborn Screening Medicaid/Paid Card Order Requests
-
Priority overnight shipping requests received on Wednesday, 11/27/2024 will be processed and shipped via FedEx Priority Overnight.
-
All requests received before noon Wednesday, 11/27/2024 will be processed and shipped via FedEx Ground.
-
Requests received after noon Wednesday, 11/27/2024 through Saturday, 11/30/2024 will be sent Monday, 12/02/2024.
Texas Health Steps/PKU/TB/HIV/Courier Supply Order Requests
-
Requests received before 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, 11/27/2024 will be audited, issued, and shipped via FedEx Ground Wednesday afternoon, 11/27/2024.
-
Requests received after 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, 11/27/2024 through Sunday, 12/01/2024 will be audited, issued, and shipped on Monday, 12/02/2024 via FedEx Ground.
*** Per FedEx website, FedEx Ground will be closed Thursday, 11/28/2024 but will deliver packages Friday, 11/29/2024.***
Questions?
Clinical Chemistry: ClinicalChemistry@dshs.texas.gov
Clinical Chemistry General Inquiries: 512-776-6236
Container Preparation: ContainerPrepGroup@dshs.texas.gov
Environmental Chemistry Unit: EnvSciAdmin@dshs.texas.gov
Microbiology Unit: Lab.Microbiology@dshs.texas.gov
Microbiology General Inquiries: 512-776-7599
Newborn Screening General Inquiries: 512-776-7333
Newborn Screening: NewbornScreeningLab@dshs.texas.gov
Specimen Submission: LabInfo@dshs.texas.gov
Posted November 14, 2024
DSHS Austin Laboratory Phone and Fax Services Technical Issues
The DSHS Austin Laboratory is experiencing intermittent technical issues with outbound and inbound phone service and outbound fax systems. We are currently unable to receive and make phone calls and send faxes to various areas of Texas. The issue is being investigated and evaluated for resolution.
In the interim, the Laboratory is using alternative means to contact our submitters. Alternatively, please use email to initiate communication directly with your Laboratory contact.
|
DSHS Austin Laboratory Contact |
Phone Number |
|
|---|---|---|
|
AR Laboratory Network |
|
|
|
AR Lab Network Liaison |
512-776-2321 |
|
|
BioThreat Team |
512-776-3781 |
|
|
Chemical Threat Team |
512-776-7270 |
|
|
Clinical Chemistry Educator |
512-776-6236 |
|
|
Clinical Chemistry Specimen Logistics |
512-776-6237 or |
|
|
Container Supply/Kit Ordering |
512-776-7661 |
|
|
Environmental Chemistry Unit |
512-776-7587 |
|
|
Laboratory Reporting Group |
512-776-7578 |
|
|
Microbiology Laboratory Educator |
512-776-3877 |
|
|
Microbiology Specimen Logistics |
512-776-3067 |
|
|
Newborn Screening Educators |
512-776-7585 |
|
|
Newborn Screening Specimen Logistics |
512-776-3198 |
|
|
Specimen Acquisition |
(512) 776-7598 or |
|
We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this interruption may cause. An update will be provided once the issue is resolved, and phone and fax services are back to normal operation.
The DSHS Austin Laboratory appreciates your patience and dedication to ensuring the best possible health outcomes for all Texans.
Posted October 14, 2024
Proposed Fee Schedule Changes for Austin and South Texas Laboratories
The Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Public Health Laboratory is revising laboratory testing and fees to meet business needs. These revisions are proposed to take effect January 1, 2025. Stakeholders may submit comments until December 31, 2024.
To view complete details, please visit the DSHS Laboratory’s Fee Schedule webpage.
Posted October 1, 2024
DSHS Austin Laboratory Phone and Fax Services Technical Issues
September 17, 2024
The DSHS Austin Laboratory is experiencing intermittent technical issues with outbound phone and fax systems and is unable to make phone calls or send faxes to various areas of Texas. The issue is being investigated and evaluated for resolution.
In the interim, the Laboratory is using alternative means to contact our submitters. If you receive a request to call the DSHS Laboratory, please do so. Alternatively, use email to initiate communication directly with your Laboratory contact.
|
DSHS Austin Laboratory Contact |
Phone Number |
|
|
AR Laboratory Network |
||
|
AR Lab Network Liaison |
512-776-2321 |
|
|
BioThreat Team |
512-776-3781 |
|
|
Chemical Threat Team |
512-776-7270 |
|
|
Clinical Chemistry Educator |
512-776-6236 |
|
|
Clinical Chemistry Specimen Logistics |
512-776-6237 or |
|
|
Container Supply/Kit Ordering |
512-776-7661 |
|
|
Environmental Chemistry Unit |
512-776-7587 |
|
|
Laboratory Reporting Group |
512-776-7578 |
|
|
Microbiology Laboratory Educator |
512-776-3877 |
|
|
Microbiology Specimen Logistics |
512-776-3067 |
|
|
Newborn Screening Educators |
512-776-7585 |
|
|
Newborn Screening Specimen Logistics |
512-776-3198 |
|
|
Specimen Acquisition |
(512) 776-7598 or |
We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this interruption may cause. An update will be provided once the issue is resolved, and phone and fax services are back to normal operation.
The DSHS Austin Laboratory appreciates your patience and dedication to ensuring the best possible health outcomes for all Texans.
Posted September 17, 2024
Updates to DSHS Laboratory Fee Schedules, Austin and South Texas Lab
The Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Public Health Laboratory Division has revised laboratory testing and fees to meet business needs. These revisions take effect September 1, 2024.
To view complete details, please visit the DSHS Laboratory’s Fee Schedule webpage.
Posted Aug 30, 2024
DSHS Austin Laboratory Phone and Fax Services Technical Issues
July 9, 2024
The DSHS Austin Laboratory is experiencing intermittent technical issues with outbound phone and fax systems and is unable to make phone calls or send faxes to various areas of Texas. The issue is being investigated and evaluated for resolution.
In the interim, the Laboratory is using alternative means to contact our submitters. If you receive a request to call the DSHS Laboratory, please do so. Alternatively, use email to initiate communication directly with your Laboratory contact.
|
DSHS Austin Laboratory Contact |
Phone Number |
|
|
AR Laboratory Network |
|
|
|
AR Lab Network Liaison |
512-776-2321 |
|
|
BioThreat Team |
512-776-3781 |
|
|
Chemical Threat Team |
512-776-7270 |
|
|
Clinical Chemistry Educator |
512-776-6236 |
|
|
Clinical Chemistry Specimen Logistics |
512-776-6237 or |
|
|
Container Supply/Kit Ordering |
512-776-7661 |
|
|
Environmental Chemistry Unit |
512-776-7587 |
|
|
Laboratory Reporting Group |
512-776-7578 |
|
|
Microbiology Laboratory Educator |
512-776-3877 |
|
|
Microbiology Specimen Logistics |
512-776-3067 |
|
|
Newborn Screening Educators |
512-776-7585 |
|
|
Newborn Screening Specimen Logistics |
512-776-3198 |
|
|
Specimen Acquisition |
(512) 776-7598 or |
We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this interruption may cause. An update will be provided once the issue is resolved, and phone and fax services are back to normal operation.
The DSHS Austin Laboratory appreciates your patience and dedication to ensuring the best possible health outcomes for all Texans.
Posted Jul 09, 2024
Proposed Fee Schedule Changes for Austin and South Texas Laboratories
The Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Public Health Laboratory is revising laboratory testing and fees to meet business needs. These revisions are proposed to take effect September 1, 2024. Stakeholders may submit comments until August 31, 2024.
To view complete details, please visit the DSHS Laboratory’s Fee Schedule webpage.
Posted May 31, 2024
2024 Annual DSHS Austin Public Health Laboratory Customer Service Survey
A message from Grace Kubin, Ph.D., Associate Commissioner, DSHS Public Health Laboratory Division
It’s that time of year again! Each year, the DSHS Austin Public Health Laboratory conducts a survey, open to all our customers, to provide important feedback on laboratory services. Your feedback is used by the laboratory to better understand your needs and identify gaps in service as part of the laboratory's commitment to continuous quality improvement. If you are interested to see the results of last year’s survey, you can find them here: 2023 Annual DSHS Laboratory Customer Service Survey Results Summary.
I encourage you to take the 2024 Public Health Laboratory Customer Service Survey. It should not take more than 10 minutes to complete. For questions or concerns, please send an email to: Labinfo@dshs.texas.gov.
2024 Public Health Laboratory Customer Service Survey
**Feedback will be collected until April 30, 2024**
Posted April 1, 2024
DSHS Austin Laboratory Christmas and New Year Holiday Closure Reminder
With the exception of Newborn Screening and Rabies testing, the DSHS Austin Laboratory will be closed, and testing will not occur from Saturday, 12/23/2023 through Tuesday, 12/26/2023. Testing services will resume as normal, Wednesday, 12/27/2023.
- The Laboratory is closed on New Year’s Day, Monday 01/01/2024.
All submitters are responsible for the timely and appropriate shipping of specimens to the Laboratory.
See below for more details on selected testing.
Newborn Screening (NBS)
Christmas Closure: Monday 12/25/2023. Testing will resume Tuesday 12/26/2023. New Year Closure: Monday 01/01/2024. Testing will resume Tuesday 01/02/2024.
- NBS specimens received and accessioned on Saturday, 12/23/2023 and 12/30/2023 will be tested immediately.
- Healthcare providers may be notified of critical-level preliminary presumptive positive results on Sunday, 12/24/2023 (Christmas Eve) and Sunday, 12/31/2023 (New Year’s Eve).
Submission Reminders:
- DO NOT DELAY collection or shipment of newborn screening specimens.
- Ship dried specimens within 24 hours of collection. If mail or courier services are unavailable, ship as soon as possible.
- DSHS recommends shipping specimens using an overnight or trackable service like USPS priority mail, FedEx, and UPS.
Clinical Chemistry
Christmas Closure: Monday 12/25/2023 and Tuesday 12/26/23. Testing will resume Wednesday 12/27/2023.
New Year Closure: Monday 01/01/2024. Testing will resume Tuesday 01/02/2024.
• Total hemoglobin, lead, glucose, and lipid/cholesterol specimens must be received by 12:00 p.m. on Friday, 12/22/2023 to complete testing before the holiday closure.
• DO NOT ship cholesterol, lipid profile, or glucose specimens on Friday 12/22/2023.
Submission Reminders:
• Specimens submitted for lead and total hemoglobin testing must be received within 14 days of collection.
• Specimens submitted for glucose, lipid panel, cholesterol, and creatinine testing must be received according to the specimen submission guidelines available at https://www.dshs.texas.gov/lab/MRS_labtests_toc.shtm.
Environmental Science
• If you require any priority analysis during the holiday period, please reach out to envsciadmin@dshs.texas.gov.
Microbiology
Christmas Closure: Monday 12/25/2023 and Tuesday 12/26/23. Testing will resume Wednesday 12/27/23.
New Year Closure: Monday 01/01/2024. Testing will resume Tuesday 01/02/24.
Rabies Specimens:
- Rabies specimens received before 8:00 a.m. Friday, 12/22/2023 will be tested the same day.
- Results will be available by 5:00 p.m.
- Rabies specimens received after 8:00 a.m. Friday, 12/22/2023 will be tested on Saturday 12/23/2023.
- Submitters of positive results will be notified by 12:00 p.m. Preliminary results will be available by 12:00 p.m., if requested.
- Final results will be available to submitters on Wednesday, 12/27/2023 by 5:00 p.m.
- Emergency testing—only by prior arrangement with Rabies testing staff—will be available: Saturday, 12/23/2023; Tuesday, 12/26/23; and Monday, 01/01/24. Call (512) 776-7595 before 4:00 p.m. of the previous day to discuss. Emergency testing is not available on 12/25/23.
- Specimen receipt by 8:00 a.m. must be guaranteed to ensure same day testing and preliminary results.
- DO NOT ship specimens for delivery Saturday, 12/23/23 through Tuesday, 12/26/23 or Saturday, 12/30/23 through Monday, 01/01/24. Specimens should be stored at 2ºC – 8ºC until shipping is possible.
- All other specimens will be tested on Wednesday, 12/27/2023.
Tuberculosis (TB) Specimens:
-
Critical specimens for AFB Smear and NAA testing must be received by 8:30 a.m., Thursday, 12/21/2023 for expedited AFB Smear and NAA test results before the Christmas holiday.
- DO NOT ship specimens for delivery on Friday, 12/22/2023 through Tuesday, 12/26/2023.
Refrigerate specimens collected during this period until shipping is possible. - Call (512) 776-7342 before 9:00 a.m., Friday, 12/22/2023 for expedited test requests.
Candida auris Swab Specimens:
-
Do not ship swabs for delivery on Friday, 12/22/2023 through Friday, 12/29/2023.
- Swabs collected during this period must be refrigerated and shipped on cold packs for delivery when the Laboratory is open. Please remember that swabs must be received within 72 hours of collection.
Carbapenem Resistant Organisms Swab Specimens:
-
Do not collect or ship swabs from Thursday, 12/21/2023 through Monday, 12/25/2023.
Neisseria gonorrhoeae Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Specimens:
-
Do not collect or ship swabs from Thursday, 12/21/2023 through Monday, 12/25/2023.
- Do not ship for delivery Tuesday, 12/26/23.
Bacteriology Water Samples:
-
Will not be accepted at DSHS Laboratory from Friday, 12/22/2023 to Tuesday, 12/26/2023.
- Will be accepted at DSHS Laboratory from Wednesday, 12/27/2023 to Thursday, 12/28/2023.
- Will not be accepted at DSHS Laboratory from Friday, 12/29/2023 to Monday, 01/01/2024.
- Water samples acceptance schedule will resume normal operations Tuesday, 01/02/2024.
All Other Microbiology Specimens or Samples:
-
Do not ship specimens for delivery between Saturday, 12/23/2023 and Tuesday, 12/26/2023. Store specimens collected during this time at an appropriate temperature (e.g., -70°C) or below for clinical virology samples.
- No tests will be performed from Saturday, 12/23/2023 to Tuesday, 12/26/2023.
Ordering Laboratory Supplies:
Newborn Screening Medicaid/Paid Card Order Requests
-
Priority overnight shipping requests received Thursday, 12/21/2023 will be processed and shipped via FedEx Priority Overnight.
- All requests received before 12:00 p.m. on Friday, 12/22/2023 will be processed and shipped via FedEx Ground.
- Requests received after 12:00 p.m. on Friday 12/22/2023 through Tuesday 12/26/2023 will be sent on Wednesday 12/27/2023.
Texas Health Steps/PKU/TB/HIV/C. auris/CRO/GC AST Courier Supply Order Requests
- All requests received on Thursday 12 /21/2023 will be audited, issued, and shipped via FedEx Ground.
- Requests received on Friday 12/22/2023 will be audited, issued, and shipped via FedEx Ground on Wednesday 12/27/2023.
- Requests received on Friday 12/29/2023 will be audited, issued, and shipped on Tuesday 01/02/2024 via FedEx Ground.
***Per FedEx website, FedEx Ground will be closed Saturday 12/23/2023 through Monday 12/25/2023. FedEx Ground will also be closed Saturday 12/30/2023 through Monday 01/01/2024.***
Questions?
Newborn Screening General Inquiries: (512) 776-7333
Microbiology General Inquiries: (512) 776-7599
Clinical Chemistry General Inquiries: (512) 776-6236
Newborn Screening: NewbornScreeningLab@dshs.texas.gov
Clinical Chemistry: ClinicalChemistry@dshs.texas.gov
Microbiology Branch: Lab.Microbiology@dshs.texas.gov
Texas AR Lab Network TexasARLN@dshs.texas.gov
Specimen Submission: LabInfo@dshs.texas.gov
Container Preparation: (512) 776-7672; ContainerPrepGroup@dshs.texas.gov
Posted December 13, 2023
DSHS Austin Laboratory Thanksgiving Holiday Closure Reminder
With the exception of Newborn Screening and Rabies testing, the DSHS Austin Laboratory will be closed, and no testing will occur Thursday, 11/23/2023 through Saturday, 11/25/2023. The DSHS Laboratory is completely closed on Sundays. Testing services will resume as normal, Monday, 11/27/2023.
See below for more details on selected testing.
Newborn Screening (NBS)
- The Newborn Screening Laboratory will be closed Thanksgiving Day, Thursday 11/23/2023 and will resume testing on Friday, 11/24/2023.
- DO NOT DELAY collection or shipment of newborn screening specimens.
- Ship dried specimens within 24 hours of collection. If mail or courier services are unavailable, ship as soon as possible.
- DSHS recommends shipping specimens using an overnight or trackable service like USPS priority mail, FedEx, and UPS.
Clinical Chemistry
- Total hemoglobin, lead, glucose, and lipid/cholesterol specimens must be received by Wednesday, 11/22/2023 to complete testing before the holiday closure.
- DO NOT ship cholesterol, lipid profile, or glucose specimens on Fridays or on the day before a state-observed holiday.
Microbiology
Rabies Specimens:
-
Rabies specimens received after 8:00 a.m. Wednesday, 11/22/2023 will be tested Friday, 11/24/2023. Submitters will be notified of positive results by 12:00 p.m. Friday. All other results will be available Monday 11/27/2023.
- Emergency testing will be available Friday, 11/24/2023 and Saturday, 11/25/2023 only by prior arrangement with Rabies testing staff. Call (512) 776-7595 before 4:00 p.m. Wednesday, 11/22/2023 to discuss. Specimen receipt must be guaranteed by 8:00 a.m. the morning of testing. Preliminary results will be called out as soon as emergency testing is completed. Final results will be available Monday 11/27/2023.
- All other specimens will be tested on Monday, 11/27/2023, and results will be available by 5:00 p.m.
Tuberculosis (TB) Specimens:
- Do not ship specimens for delivery between Wednesday, 11/22/2023 and Saturday, 11/25/2023. Refrigerate specimens collected during this period until shipping is possible.
- Ensure critical AFB Smear and NAA for M. tuberculosis specimens are delivered by 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, 11/22/2023.
- Call (512) 776-7342 before 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, 11/22/2023 for expedited test requests.
Candida auris Swab Specimens:
-
Do not ship swabs for delivery from Wednesday, 11/22/2023 to Saturday, 11/24/2023.
Swabs collected during this period must be refrigerated and shipped on cold packs for delivery when Laboratory is open.
Carbapenem Resistant Organisms Swab Specimens:
-
Do not collect or ship swabs from Tuesday, 11/21/2023 to Saturday, 11/24/2023.
Neisseria gonorrhoeae Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Specimens:
-
Do not collect or ship swabs from Tuesday, 11/21/2023 to Saturday, 11/24/2023.
Bacteriology Water Samples:
-
Water samples will not be accepted at DSHS Laboratory from Wednesday, 11/22/2023 to Saturday, 11/25/2023.
All Other Microbiology Specimens or Samples:
- Do not ship specimens for delivery between Thursday, 11/23/2023 and Saturday, 11/25/2023. Store specimens collected during this time at an appropriate temperature, e.g. -70°C, or below for clinical virology samples.
- No tests will be performed from Thursday, 11/23/2023 to Saturday, 11/25/2023.
Ordering Laboratory Supplies:
Newborn Screening Medicaid/Paid Card Order Requests
- Priority overnight shipping requests received on Wednesday 11/22/2023 will be processed and shipped via FedEx Priority Overnight.
- All requests received before noon Wednesday 11/22/2023 will be processed and shipped via FedEx Ground.
- Requests received after noon Wednesday 11/22/2023 through Saturday 11/25/2023 will be sent Monday, 11/27/2023.
Texas Health Steps/PKU/TB/HIV/Courier Supply Order Requests
- All requests received on Wednesday 11/22/2023 will be audited, issued, and shipped via FedEx Ground.
- Requests received before 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday 11/22/2023 will be audited, issued, and shipped via FedEx Ground Wednesday afternoon, 11/22/23.
- Requests received after 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday 11/22/2023 through Sunday 11/26/2023 will be audited, issued, and shipped on Monday 11/27/2023 via FedEx Ground.
***Per FedEx website, FedEx Ground will be closed Thursday 11/23/2023 but will deliver packages Friday 11/24/2023.***
Questions?
Newborn Screening General Inquiries: (512) 776-7333
Microbiology General Inquiries: (512) 776-7599
Clinical Chemistry General Inquiries: (512) 776-6236
Newborn Screening: NewbornScreeningLab@dshs.texas.gov
Clinical Chemistry: ClinicalChemistry@dshs.texas.gov
Microbiology Branch: Lab.Microbiology@dshs.texas.gov
Specimen Submission: LabInfo@dshs.texas.gov
Container Preparation: ContainerPrepGroup@dshs.texas.gov
Posted November 9, 2023
The Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Public Health Laboratory Division has revised Newborn Screening Laboratory Testing Fees.
The Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Public Health Laboratory Division has revised newborn screening laboratory testing fees to meet business needs. This revision takes effect January 1, 2024.
The cost of PAID newborn screening (NBS) kits will be increased by 8% (from $63.55 to $68.63). Paid NBS kits, ordered on or after January 1, 2024, would be billed at the new price of $68.63. To view complete details, please visit the DSHS Laboratory’s Fee Schedule webpage.
Posted October 18, 2023
DSHS Austin Laboratory Creatinine Testing Discontinued
The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Austin Laboratory discontinued creatinine testing on September 1, 2023. To view other test menu changes, please visit the DSHS Austin Laboratory Fee Schedule.
For Clinical Chemistry questions or comments:
Call: 1-888-963-7111 ext. 6236 For local calls: 512-776-6236 or
Email: clinicalchemistry@dshs.texas.gov
Posted September 27, 2023
****Effective Immediately****
Measles IgM Testing Information
Due to delays in the manufacture of Measles IgM EIA kits, the DSHS Laboratory is temporarily unable to perform Measles IgM testing. During this time, all specimens received at DSHS Laboratory requesting this test will be forwarded to Quest Diagnostics laboratory for processing.
Measles IgM test results will continue to be reported from DSHS Laboratory but will include an additional attached report displaying the Quest results.
Please continue to submit specimens for Measles IgM testing to DSHS Laboratory following specimen submission requirements.
DSHS Laboratory anticipates the Measles IgM EIA kits will be available again no later than March 2024. The Laboratory will release a follow-up notification when the issue is resolved.
Questions or Comments?
Call toll-free: 1-888-963-7111 ext. 7760
Call Local: 512-776-7760
Email: Lab.Microbiology@dshs.texas.gov
Posted Sep 21, 2023
NBS Web Application (Neometrics) will be Unavailable from 6:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 22, to 6:00 a.m. Wednesday, August 23, 2023
IT will be performing network maintenance starting at 6:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 22, 2023, to
6:00 a.m. Wednesday, August 23, 2023.
During this time, the DSHS Newborn Screening Web Application (Neometrics) will be unavailable.
Need help?
Contact DSHS Laboratory:
Phone: 1-888- 963-7111 ext. 7318 or Locally: 512-776-7318
Email Newborn Screening: NewbornScreeningLab@dshs.texas.gov
Posted August 22, 2023
DSHS Austin Laboratory Bacteriology Water Samples
Water samples will NOT be accepted for testing on Monday 7/3/2023 and Tuesday 7/4/2023.
The Laboratory will resume normal operating hours for accepting bacteriological water samples on Wednesday, July 5, 2023.
After July 5th, water samples will be accepted Monday – Thursday 8am – 4pm (Except Federal Holidays).
For questions or comments: Call toll free: 1-888-963-7111 ext. 7598 or for local calls 512-776-7598
Call 512-776-7598 with any questions.
Posted June 27, 2023
Proposed Fee Schedule Changes for Austin and South Texas Laboratories
The Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Laboratory Services Section (LSS) is revising laboratory testing and fees to meet business needs, with the exception of newborn screening (NBS) fees. These revisions are proposed to take effect September 1, 2023. Stakeholders may submit comments until August 31, 2023.
DSHS anticipates increases to the fee for newborn screening beginning January 1, 2024. The purpose of this increase will be to support increased costs for operations and is not for the addition of any new conditions to the DSHS newborn screening panel. DSHS will provide further details on this expected change in fall 2023.
To view complete details, visit the DSHS Laboratory’s Fee Schedule webpage.
Posted June 2, 2023
2023 Annual DSHS Laboratory Customer Service Survey
A message from Grace Kubin, Ph.D., Director, DSHS Laboratory Services Section.
Your feedback is very important! Each year, the DSHS Laboratory initiates a survey open to all our customers to provide important feedback on laboratory services. Your feedback is used by the laboratory to better understand your needs and identify gaps in service as part of the laboratory's commitment to continuous quality improvement. This year, we are providing a summary of last year’s (2022 survey) results and changes initiated in response to your feedback found on the Laboratory Services Section website here: Laboratory Customer Service Survey.
I encourage you to take the 2023 Laboratory Customer Service Survey. It should not take more than 10 minutes to complete. For questions or concerns, please send an email to: Labinfo@dshs.texas.gov.
2023 Laboratory Customer Service Survey.
**Feedback will be collected until June 30, 2023**
Posted June 1, 2023
DSHS Laboratory Updates for February 2, 2023
The DSHS Laboratory will resume operations on February 2, 2023 at 1:00 pm.
All samples will be processed as soon as possible once operations resume. However, samples received outside of their acceptability window will be unsatisfactory for testing.
The DSHS Austin Laboratory appreciates the dedication and commitment of healthcare providers to keep Texans healthy.
Contact DSHS Laboratory:
Email: labinfo@dshs.texas.gov
Email Microbiology: Lab.Microbiology@dshs.texas.gov
Email Newborn Screening: NewbornScreeningLab@dshs.texas.gov
Email Clinical Chemistry: ClinicalChemistry@dshs.texas.gov
Posted February 1, 2023
DSHS Laboratory Closure Due to Inclement Weather
Inclement weather in Austin and other parts of Texas may cause a delay of testing at the Department of State Health Services Laboratory.
- The DSHS Laboratory will be closed on Wednesday, February 01, 2023, due to inclement weather in the Austin area.
- Please continue to ship all samples per regular guidelines.
- Courier services may experience delays due to the weather. Please check your courier for local service alerts.
- All samples will be processed as soon as possible after resumption of normal operations. However, samples received outside of their acceptability window will be unsatisfactory for testing.
- The laboratory will work at maximum capacity to resolve any specimen backlog.
The DSHS Austin Laboratory appreciates the dedication and commitment of healthcare providers to keep Texans healthy.
Contact DSHS Laboratory:
Email: labinfo@dshs.texas.gov
Email Microbiology: Lab.Microbiology@dshs.texas.gov
Email Newborn Screening: NewbornScreeningLab@dshs.texas.gov
Email Clinical Chemistry: ClinicalChemistry@dshs.texas.gov
Re-Posted January 31, 2023
DSHS Laboratory Website Upgrade
The Texas Department of State Health Services Website has changed platforms. As a result of these changes, there may be missing or broken links. As we work through the remaining issues, we appreciate your patience.
In the meantime, if there is any information or documents needed, please feel free to reach out to the appropriate department.
Need help?
Contact DSHS Laboratory:
Newborn Screening Inquiries: (512) 776-7333
Microbiology Inquiries: (512) 776-7599
Clinical Chemistry Inquiries: (512) 776-6236
Newborn Screening: NewbornScreeningLab@dshs.texas.gov
Clinical Chemistry: ClinicalChemistry@dshs.texas.gov
Microbiology Branch: Lab.Microbiology@dshs.texas.gov
Specimen Submission: LabInfo@dshs.texas.gov
Container Preparation: ContainerPrepGroup@dshs.texas.gov
Posted January 26, 2023