Newborn Screening - Use and Storage of Dried Blood Spots after NBS
DSHS Use and Storage of Dried Blood Spots | |||||||||||
What are residual dried blood spots?
What happens to the residual blood spot card after testing? After testing, DSHS keeps residual blood spots in a secure place for up to two years. By Texas law (Health & Safety Code Sec. 33.018 (b)-(c)), the residual blood spots may be used during that time. Residual blood spots will be destroyed within two years unless otherwise permitted by the parent or guardian. Uses within the two years include:
If the parent gives their OK on the Parent Decision Form for Storage and Use of Newborn Screening Blood Spots, the residual blood spots may be stored safely for up to 25 years, and they may be used for public health research outside of DSHS. This research would study public health problems like cancer, birth defects or other diseases. No matter the parent’s choice, no information that can identify them or their child can be released outside DSHS without additional written consent. The data use policy and a list of research uses that have been allowed by DSHS can be found here.
DSHS storage of residual blood spots is governed by Texas law as detailed in the chart below:
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Forms | |||||||||||
Specimens collected June 1, 2012 or later
Specimens collected May 27, 2009 through May 31, 2012 Parents can request destruction of their child's Newborn Screening Specimens collected May 27, 2009 through May 31, 2012 by submitting the form below to the DSHS.
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Additional Information | |||||||||||
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Contact Us | |||||||||||
(888) 963-7111, ext. 7333 toll free |
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