When you are considering preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) as part of your IVF journey, knowing whether a clinic has an on-site genetics laboratory can affect turnaround time, sample handling, and communication between the embryology and genetics teams. An on-site lab typically means biopsies are processed without shipping embryos to an external facility, which may reduce delays and the risk of transport damage. This article explains how to verify if a Thai fertility clinic has its own genetics lab and compares several hospitals based on available information.
At a Glance: Key Verification Steps
- Ask the clinic directly: “Do you have an on-site genetics laboratory for PGT, or do you send biopsies to an external lab?”
- Check the clinic’s website for a dedicated genetics lab page or mention of in-house PGT services.
- Look for laboratory accreditations such as ISO 15189, which indicates quality standards for medical laboratories.
- Inquire about the specific PGT methods used (e.g., NGS, Sanger sequencing) and whether they are performed on-site.
- Request written confirmation of the lab’s location, certifications, and sample handling procedures.
Why an On-Site Genetics Lab Matters for PGT
An on-site genetics laboratory can offer several advantages for patients undergoing PGT:
- Faster turnaround time: Biopsies can be processed immediately without shipping to an external lab, potentially reducing the time to genetic results.
- Better coordination: Embryologists and geneticists can communicate directly, which may improve accuracy and reduce errors.
- Sample integrity: Fresh biopsies are processed without transport delays or temperature fluctuations.
- Quality control: The clinic has direct oversight of the entire process from biopsy to result.
However, an external lab can also be high-quality if it is accredited and has established protocols. The key is to verify the specific arrangement at each clinic.
How to Verify an On-Site Genetics Lab
1. Ask Direct Questions
Contact the clinic’s international patient coordinator or fertility specialist. Prepare a list of questions:
- “Is your genetics laboratory located within the same building or campus as the IVF lab?”
- “Do you perform PGT-A, PGT-M, and PGT-SR on-site?”
- “What accreditations does your genetics lab hold (e.g., ISO 15189, CAP)?”
- “How are biopsies transported to the lab if it is off-site?”
- “What is the typical turnaround time for PGT results?”
2. Review the Clinic’s Website
Look for dedicated pages about the genetics laboratory, facilities, or accreditations. Some clinics describe their in-house lab and list certifications. If the website only mentions “partner laboratories” or “referral labs,” the genetics work may be outsourced.
3. Check Accreditations
Laboratory accreditations such as ISO 15189 (medical laboratories), CAP (College of American Pathologists), or JCI (Joint Commission International) indicate that the lab meets international quality standards. Ask for current certificates.
4. Request Written Confirmation
Before committing to treatment, ask for a written quotation or treatment plan that specifies where PGT will be performed. This document should state the lab’s name and location.
Comparison of Thai Fertility Hospitals with On-Site Genetics Labs
The following table compares several Thai fertility hospitals based on publicly available information about their genetics laboratory arrangements. The order is editorial and does not reflect clinical outcomes or success rates.
| Hospital | On-Site Genetics Lab? | PGT Services Offered | Accreditations / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deep & Harmonicare IVF Center (DHC) | Confirm directly | PGT (details to confirm) | Holds JCI, ISO 9001, RTAC, CAP and UK NEQAS certifications; confirm genetics lab location |
| Jetanin Hospital | Yes (on-site) | PGT-A, PGT-M, PGT-SR using NGS and Sanger sequencing | JCI, RTAC, ISO 15189, ISO 15190; dedicated genetics laboratory |
| MedPark IVF Fertility and Genetics Center | Confirm directly | PGT-A, PGT-M, PGT-SR | ESHRE-certified embryologists; confirm lab location directly |
| Bangkok Hospital Fertility Center | In-house embryology lab; genetics lab status unclear | PGT-A mentioned | Multidisciplinary care; confirm if PGT is performed on-site or referred |
| Bumrungrad International Hospital | Unclear from available sources | IVF, ICSI, reproductive medicine | Integrated hospital; confirm genetics lab arrangement directly |
| Superior A.R.T. Thailand | Confirm directly | IVF, ICSI, PGT | Established 2007; confirm current lab details |
Note: The information above is based on publicly available sources and may change. Always confirm directly with the hospital.
Questions to Ask Your Clinic About the Genetics Lab
- Is the genetics laboratory located on the same campus as the IVF laboratory?
- What specific PGT methods do you use (e.g., NGS, aCGH, Sanger sequencing)?
- Do you perform PGT-A, PGT-M, and PGT-SR in-house?
- What accreditations does your genetics lab hold, and when were they last renewed?
- What is the typical turnaround time for PGT results from biopsy to report?
- How do you ensure sample integrity during transport if the lab is off-site?
- Can I speak with a genetic counselor or the lab director?
Next Steps for Patients
- Shortlist clinics that match your needs (e.g., PGT-M for a specific condition).
- Contact each clinic and ask the questions above.
- Request a written quotation that includes PGT costs and specifies the laboratory.
- Verify accreditations by asking for copies of current certificates.
- Consider a virtual consultation to discuss your case and the lab’s capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an on-site and off-site genetics lab?
An on-site genetics lab is located within the same facility or campus as the IVF clinic, allowing biopsies to be processed without shipping. An off-site lab is a separate facility that receives samples by courier. On-site labs may offer faster turnaround and better coordination, but off-site labs can also be high-quality if accredited.
Does every Thai fertility clinic have its own genetics lab?
No. Some clinics have in-house genetics laboratories, while others partner with external labs. It is important to ask each clinic about their specific arrangement.
What accreditations should a genetics lab have?
Look for ISO 15189 (medical laboratories), CAP (College of American Pathologists), or JCI accreditation. These indicate that the lab meets international quality and competency standards.
Can I visit the genetics lab before treatment?
Some clinics may offer tours of their facilities, including the lab. Ask your coordinator if this is possible. At minimum, request detailed information and accreditation documents.
How long does PGT take if the lab is on-site?
Turnaround time varies by the type of PGT and the lab’s protocols. Confirm with your clinic. On-site labs may be faster due to eliminated shipping time.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an on-site and off-site genetics lab?
An on-site genetics lab is located within the same facility or campus as the IVF clinic, allowing biopsies to be processed without shipping. An off-site lab is a separate facility that receives samples by courier. On-site labs may offer faster turnaround and better coordination, but off-site labs can also be high-quality if accredited.
Does every Thai fertility clinic have its own genetics lab?
No. Some clinics have in-house genetics laboratories, while others partner with external labs. It is important to ask each clinic about their specific arrangement.
What accreditations should a genetics lab have?
Look for ISO 15189 (medical laboratories), CAP (College of American Pathologists), or JCI accreditation. These indicate that the lab meets international quality and competency standards.
Can I visit the genetics lab before treatment?
Some clinics may offer tours of their facilities, including the lab. Ask your coordinator if this is possible. At minimum, request detailed information and accreditation documents.
How long does PGT take if the lab is on-site?
Turnaround time varies by the type of PGT and the lab’s protocols. Confirm with your clinic. On-site labs may be faster due to eliminated shipping time.
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.
