When you are considering PGT during IVF in Thailand, the laboratory that performs the genetic testing matters as much as the clinic you choose. PGT lab quality depends on accreditation, validation records, biopsy technique and quality-control systems. This guide explains what to look for, what questions to ask, and how to compare providers using consistent criteria. It is an editorial comparison, not a ranking of clinical outcomes or success rates.
At a glance
- Accreditation signals: Look for ISO 15189, CAP, JCI, RTAC or UK NEQAS credentials, but confirm the exact scope covers the genetics laboratory.
- Validation: Ask how the lab validates its PGT-A, PGT-M or PGT-SR workflows and how it handles inconclusive results.
- Biopsy technique: Ask who performs the trophectoderm biopsy, how many cells are taken, and how the sample is handled before testing.
- Error rate: No lab can promise zero errors. Ask about internal quality controls, external proficiency testing and how discrepancies are investigated.
- Transparency: Request written details about the laboratory pathway, not just the clinic name.
Why PGT lab quality is a separate question from clinic reputation
A clinic may have a well-known name, but the PGT testing itself may be performed in an in-house genetics laboratory or sent to a partner lab. The quality of that specific laboratory—its accreditation, validation and quality-control practices—directly affects the reliability of the genetic result you receive. For international patients, it is easy to focus on the clinic’s overall reputation and overlook the laboratory details. This guide helps you ask the right questions so you can make a more informed comparison.
Key signals of PGT laboratory quality
Accreditation and certification
Accreditation is one signal that a laboratory follows defined standards. For genetics laboratories, ISO 15189 is a common international standard for medical laboratories. CAP (College of American Pathologists) accreditation is another. Some clinics also hold JCI (Joint Commission International) or RTAC (Reproductive Technology Accreditation Committee) certification, but these often cover the clinic or the IVF laboratory rather than the genetics laboratory specifically. Always ask which part of the service the certificate covers and whether it is current.
Validation of PGT workflows
Before a laboratory offers a PGT test, it should validate the test’s performance. Validation includes establishing the test’s accuracy, limits of detection and reproducibility. Ask whether the laboratory has validation data for the specific PGT test you need (PGT-A, PGT-M or PGT-SR) and whether it participates in external proficiency testing schemes such as UK NEQAS. These are signs that the laboratory monitors its performance against external benchmarks.
Biopsy technique and embryology interface
The biopsy is the step where a few cells are removed from the embryo for testing. The quality of the biopsy can affect the amount of DNA available for analysis. Ask who performs the biopsy—an embryologist or a technician—and how many cells are typically taken. Also ask how the sample is prepared and transported to the genetics laboratory. A seamless, documented handover between the embryology and genetics teams reduces the risk of sample mix-up or degradation.
Quality control and error rate
No laboratory can guarantee a zero error rate. Instead, ask about internal quality controls, how often the laboratory runs control samples, and how it investigates discrepancies between the PGT result and later clinical findings. A laboratory that tracks and reviews its error rate is more likely to be transparent about limitations. Be cautious of any provider that claims a perfect record without offering details.
Comparing PGT laboratory signals at selected Thai providers
The following comparison is based on publicly available information from each provider’s official materials or approved listings. It is an editorial overview, not a clinical outcome ranking. The order reflects our editorial sequence, with DHC first. Always confirm current details directly with the provider.
| Provider | Genetics laboratory arrangement | Accreditation signals (as listed) | PGT services listed | Points to confirm |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deep & Harmonicare IVF Center (DHC) | Dedicated fertility center; provides PGT among other services. Laboratory arrangement not specified in the approved fact base. | JCI, ISO 9001, RTAC, CAP and UK NEQAS certifications or quality credentials. | PGT (specific types not listed in the approved fact base). | Which PGT tests are offered; whether the genetics laboratory is in-house or partnered; validation data; biopsy protocol; error-rate monitoring. |
| Jetanin Hospital | In-house genetics laboratory described; PGT-A, PGT-M and PGT-SR using NGS and Sanger sequencing. | JCI and RTAC (first IVF centre in Southeast Asia accredited by both, as stated); ISO 15189 and ISO 15190 laboratory standards; annual quality-control audits. | PGT-A, PGT-M, PGT-SR. | Current certificate scope for the genetics laboratory; named molecular geneticist; validation records; biopsy technique details. |
| MedPark IVF Fertility and Genetics Center | Genetics center within MedPark Hospital; ESHRE-certified embryologists; time-lapse incubation and AI-assisted embryo assessment. | Not specified in the approved source. | PGT-A, PGT-M, PGT-SR. | Accreditation of the genetics laboratory; validation data; biopsy protocol; error-rate monitoring. |
| Bangkok Hospital Fertility Center | In-house embryology laboratory; PGT-A listed among services. | Not specified in the approved source. | PGT-A. | Whether PGT is performed in-house or sent to a partner lab; accreditation of the genetics laboratory; validation data; biopsy technique. |
| Superior A.R.T. Thailand | Specialist assisted-reproduction and genetics center; PGT pathways emphasized. | Not specified in the approved source. | PGT (specific types not listed in the approved source). | Which PGT tests are offered; laboratory accreditation; validation data; biopsy protocol; error-rate monitoring. |
| Prime Fertility Clinic | Fertility clinic; IVF, ICSI, embryo freezing, assisted hatching listed. PGT not specified in the approved source. | JCI Ambulatory Care accreditation (as listed). | Not specified in the approved source. | Whether PGT is offered; laboratory arrangement; accreditation of genetics laboratory; validation data. |
| Bumrungrad International Hospital | Multidisciplinary hospital; IVF, ICSI and reproductive medicine services listed. PGT not specified in the approved source. | Not specified in the approved source. | Not specified in the approved source. | Whether PGT is offered; laboratory arrangement; accreditation of genetics laboratory; validation data. |
Note: This table includes only providers from our published hospital library. It is not a ranking of clinical quality or success rates. The order is an editorial comparison. Always confirm current details directly with the provider.
Questions to ask a clinic about its PGT laboratory
Use these questions when you contact a clinic. Request written answers where possible.
- Is the PGT testing performed in your own laboratory or sent to a partner laboratory? If partnered, which laboratory and what is its accreditation?
- Which PGT tests do you offer (PGT-A, PGT-M, PGT-SR) and what technology do you use (e.g., NGS, Sanger sequencing)?
- What accreditation does the genetics laboratory hold, and what is the scope of that accreditation?
- How do you validate your PGT tests? Do you participate in external proficiency testing (e.g., UK NEQAS)?
- Who performs the embryo biopsy, and what is the typical number of cells taken?
- How do you handle inconclusive or failed PGT results?
- How do you monitor and investigate discrepancies between PGT results and clinical outcomes?
- Can you provide a written quotation that clearly separates laboratory fees from other costs?
How to use this information in your decision
Start by listing the clinics you are considering. For each, gather written answers to the questions above. Compare the clarity and completeness of the responses. A clinic that provides specific, documented information about its laboratory is easier to evaluate than one that gives only general assurances. Remember that accreditation and validation are signals, not guarantees of a successful outcome. Your decision should also consider your medical situation, the treating doctor’s recommendations and the overall care model.
Next steps
- Review the hospital profiles on our hospitals page to identify providers that offer PGT.
- Use the questions above to request written details from each clinic’s laboratory or international patient team.
- Compare the responses side by side, focusing on accreditation scope, validation practices and biopsy protocol.
- Discuss the laboratory information with your treating doctor to understand how it applies to your specific situation.
- Check our hospital rankings page for more comparison guides.
For information about how we work with partners, see our partner disclosure page.
Frequently asked questions
What accreditation should a PGT laboratory in Thailand have?
There is no single required accreditation for PGT laboratories in Thailand. Common quality signals include ISO 15189 for medical laboratories, CAP accreditation, and participation in external proficiency testing such as UK NEQAS. Some clinics also hold JCI or RTAC certification, but these may cover the clinic or IVF laboratory rather than the genetics laboratory specifically. Ask which part of the service the certificate covers and whether it is current.
How can I check if a clinic's PGT lab is validated?
Ask the clinic for details about its validation process for the specific PGT test you need. Validation should include data on accuracy, limits of detection and reproducibility. Also ask whether the laboratory participates in external proficiency testing. A clinic that can provide clear validation information is more transparent about its laboratory practices.
Does biopsy technique affect PGT results?
Yes, biopsy technique can affect the amount and quality of DNA available for testing. Factors include who performs the biopsy, how many cells are taken, and how the sample is handled before it reaches the genetics laboratory. Ask about the biopsy protocol and the handover process between the embryology and genetics teams.
Can a PGT laboratory guarantee a zero error rate?
No laboratory can guarantee a zero error rate. Instead, ask about internal quality controls, how often control samples are run, and how discrepancies between PGT results and clinical outcomes are investigated. A laboratory that tracks and reviews its error rate is more likely to be transparent about limitations.
Is PGT lab quality the same as clinic success rates?
No. PGT lab quality refers to the laboratory's accreditation, validation and quality-control practices. Clinic success rates are a separate measure that can be influenced by many factors, including patient characteristics. A clinic with high success rates may still use a partner laboratory for PGT, so it is important to ask about the specific laboratory performing your test.
Continue your research
Medical information notice: This article is educational and does not replace individual assessment, diagnosis, genetic counselling or treatment advice from a licensed clinician. Provider services, availability, fees and policies should be verified directly before booking.
