Newborn Bloodspot Screening Program

Residual Bloodspot Retention, Use, and Release

After newborn screening testing is complete, some of the bloodspot specimen may be usable for other purposes. This remaining specimen is called a residual bloodspot.

Retention

Residual specimens are retained (kept) by the Oregon State Public Health Laboratory (OSPHL) for one year. Specimens will be destroyed during the month after the retention time is met using a method that protects patient confidentiality and privacy.

Use

Residual bloodspot specimens may be used by the OSPHL to make sure test results are accurate. Specific activities include:

Quality assurance and method development as required to maintain compliance with regulatory and accreditation requirements.
Program evaluation and improvement.
Education activities required by Oregon Statute.

Release

Residual bloodspot specimens will only be released by the OSPHL:

To perform routine newborn screening testing, if a testing service listed in OAR 333-024-1070 cannot be performed by the OSPHL.
When required by a court order.
When requested by the parent or guardian.

Requesting the release of a residual bloodspot specimen

Residual bloodspot specimens may be returned or shipped to a third party at the request of the parent or guardian of the infant.

The OSPHL Residual Bloodspot Specimen Request Form (pdf) must be used to make this request.
The identity of the requestor must be verified by a notary or by showing photo identification at the OSPHL in Hillsboro, OR.

Specimens will not be released sooner than 30 days after the test results are reported.

For Medical Providers: Requesting the transfer of a residual bloodspot specimen for CMV testing

OSPHL will transfer residual bloodspot specimens to a reference laboratory for CMV testing at the request of the parent or legal guardian of the infant and the ordering medical provider. To make this request, submit:

Request for Specimen Transfer for CMV Testing at a Reference Laboratory Form (pdf),
A completed laboratory test request form/requisition for the laboratory receiving the specimen, and
A copy of the parent or legal guardian's government-issued identification (ID).