DNA Paternity test information for Doctors

Information for Medical Practitioners

You may be approached by patients requesting a paternity test. Paternity testing does not require a referral and patients can be directed to contact DNA QLD directly to facilitate the paternity test. DNA is collected via a buccal swab and collections can be facilitated with our alliance with over 400 pathology collection centers in Australia and at International locations.



DNA testing is often a very emotive issue. From the perspective of a medical practitioner it is sometimes very difficult where you may actively be involved in the care and management of members from both sides of the family. With this in mind we often suggest that medical practitioners allow us to implement the testing and delivering of any results. This means that confidential results will only then be held by the patient and will not be stored at any other site. It also means that doctors continue the therapeutic relationship with both sides of the family as they are neither in the loop of the testing, nor are they responsible for the delivery of any results. DNA QLD respects the confidentiality of all information associated with paternity testing. Confidential or identifying information will not be given to any individual other than the individual being tested. DNA QLD abides by the Privacy Act 1988.



Whilst there may be certain circumstances where you believe that it may be in the family’s best interest for you to be involved in this process, it is certainly one we would like to discuss with you before hand so we can be clear as to the process, particularly with respect to the reporting of results. As an addition, it must be remembered that consultations regarding paternity testing do not attract a Medicare or a Private Health Insurance rebate. DNA QLD is able to determine paternity from prenatal samples from CVS (at 12 to 14 weeks of pregnancy) or amniocentesis (from 16 to 18 or at some ultrasound clinics up to 35 weeks of pregnancy) sampling. Please contact DNA QLD to inquire about this procedure.



Medical practitioners may be approached to collect samples for clients undertaking a legal paternity test. The client will supply a sealed collection kit which includes a checklist which outlines the steps for sample collection, an information sheet on how to collect the sample, and an Australia Post Satchel for the return of the swabs and completed forms to DNA QLD. If you have any questions regarding the nature of paternity testing or swab collection, please, of course, do not hesitate in contacting us on 1300 1 PATERNITY (1300 172 837)or our mobile contact listed on the DNA QLD phone message bank. Please contact our office if you would like information brochures on paternity testing forwarded to your practice.