Why does accreditation matter in DNA and genetic testing?
Firstly, what does AAbb accreditation even mean?
This certification is given to a very select few DNA laboratories that have undergone a highly intensive and rigorous inspection of their testing facilities and techniques to ensure all tests are done accurately and thoroughly with attention to detail. It is an accreditation bestowed by the AABB (formerly the American Association of Blood Banks) and all laboratories with the accreditation are subject to proficiency tests and bi-annual re-inspections. Standards for the AABB accreditation can be found here.
DNA testing should be done with a company offering AABB and ISO accredited results
Why does AABB matter to a DNA test?
Holding an AABB accreditation means a laboratory is on par with the best in the world and holds itself to the highest of measures within the DNA testing community. An AABB accredited lab exceeds the industry standards in technique, accuracy, and modern scientific processes.
Additionally facilities with the AABB accreditation are the only DNA testing laboratories acknowledged by the U.S. Government to perform legal court admissible DNA tests, as well as provide services for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
What other DNA Lab certifications are there?
If a laboratories meets AABB standards they are usually also certified to International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards for technical competence, calibration, and lab testing. A laboratory compliant with ISO 17025:2005 and ISO 9001:2008 standards should incorporate the most advanced technical and quality management systems into all DNA, forensic, and genetic testing.
In addition a DNA and genetic testing laboratory may also hold accreditation or certification from national and international bodies such as:
International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC-MRA)
as well as regional affiliations like NMBio
Take away
DNA companies and their laboratories are governed by many standards, accreditation’s, and certifications. The most important of which is AABB and ISO. If your DNA test is important to you and you want the results to be as accurate as they can be, whether an informational Paternity DNA Test for private use or a legal Sibling DNA Test to be used in a legal matter, make sure the company that handles your DNA test offers AABB accredited and ISO certified results.
For additional questions contact us or email us at Info@ValidityGenetics.com
