Embryo Storage and Tracking at Jetanin Hospital: What Public Information Shows
For patients considering fertility treatment abroad, the safety of stored embryos is a top concern. This review focuses on Jetanin Hospital, a specialist fertility hospital in Bangkok, and examines what its publicly available materials say about embryo storage protocols, backup systems, and chain of custody. Because detailed operational procedures are rarely published, this review separates verified information from questions that require direct confirmation from the hospital.
At a Glance: Key Points from Public Sources
- Jetanin Hospital is a dedicated fertility hospital founded in 1995, with more than 30 years of experience.
- It states it was the first IVF centre in Southeast Asia accredited by both JCI and RTAC.
- Its facilities page describes ISO 15189 and ISO 15190 laboratory standards and annual quality-control audits.
- Jetanin has in-house embryo, genetics, and sperm laboratories.
- Published services include egg and embryo freezing, blastocyst culture, and EmbryoScope time-lapse incubation.
- No public information details specific backup power systems, alarm monitoring, or chain-of-custody software.
Laboratory Standards and Accreditation
Jetanin Hospital states on its facilities page that it adheres to ISO 15189 (medical laboratories) and ISO 15190 (laboratory safety) standards. It also reports undergoing annual quality-control audits. The hospital claims to be the first IVF centre in Southeast Asia accredited by both the Joint Commission International (JCI) and the Reproductive Technology Accreditation Committee (RTAC). These accreditations require laboratories to have documented procedures for equipment monitoring, temperature control, and staff training, but the specific details of embryo storage protocols are not publicly listed.
Embryo Freezing and Storage Equipment
Jetanin’s official website lists egg and embryo freezing as a service, along with blastocyst culture and EmbryoScope time-lapse incubation. The EmbryoScope is an incubator with integrated imaging, which allows continuous monitoring of embryo development without removing embryos from stable culture conditions. However, the hospital does not publicly specify the type of freezers used (e.g., liquid nitrogen tanks with automated filling), the temperature monitoring system, or whether backup freezers are available. Patients should ask about the make and model of storage tanks, the frequency of liquid nitrogen refills, and the protocol for equipment failure.
Backup Systems and Power Failure Protocols
No public information from Jetanin describes backup power generators, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), or alarm systems for embryo storage tanks. While JCI and RTAC accreditation typically require emergency plans, the details are not disclosed online. Patients should directly ask: What happens if the power goes out? Is there a backup generator dedicated to the embryology lab? Are storage tanks connected to an alarm that alerts staff 24/7? How often are alarms tested?
Chain of Custody and Sample Tracking
Jetanin does not publicly name any electronic witnessing system (such as IVF Witness or similar) for tracking eggs, sperm, and embryos. The hospital’s website mentions a team of embryologists and molecular geneticists, but the specific steps to prevent mix-ups are not described. Accreditation standards require rigorous identification protocols, but patients should confirm: How does the lab ensure that embryos are correctly labeled and tracked from retrieval to transfer? Is a double-witness system used? Are barcodes or radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags employed?
Questions to Ask Jetanin Hospital Directly
Based on the gaps in public information, patients should request written answers to the following questions before committing to treatment:
- What type of embryo storage tanks are used (e.g., liquid nitrogen dewars with automated filling)?
- Is there a backup storage tank in case of primary tank failure?
- Does the laboratory have a backup generator? How long can it power the lab and storage tanks?
- Are storage tanks monitored 24/7 with temperature alarms? Who responds to alarms?
- What electronic witnessing or barcode system is used to track embryos?
- How often are staff trained on chain-of-custody protocols?
- Can you provide a copy of the laboratory’s quality-control audit reports (redacted as needed)?
Next Steps for Patients
When evaluating embryo storage and tracking at Jetanin Hospital, use this checklist:
- Confirm current accreditation certificates (JCI, RTAC, ISO 15189, ISO 15190) and their scope.
- Request a written description of the embryo freezing and storage protocol.
- Ask about backup systems for power and equipment failure.
- Inquire about electronic witnessing and chain-of-custody procedures.
- Consider a virtual or in-person lab tour if available.
- Compare with other hospitals’ publicly stated practices (see our hospital rankings and hospital profiles).
Remember that no publicly available information can guarantee the safety of your embryos. Direct, written confirmation from the hospital is essential.
This review is based on publicly available information as of the date of writing. For the most current details, always verify directly with Jetanin Hospital. See our editorial policy for more information.
Frequently asked questions
Does Jetanin Hospital have backup generators for embryo storage?
Jetanin Hospital does not publicly describe backup power systems. While its accreditations (JCI, RTAC) typically require emergency plans, patients should ask directly about backup generators and their testing schedule.
What electronic tracking system does Jetanin use for embryos?
Jetanin's public materials do not name a specific electronic witnessing system. Patients should ask whether barcodes, RFID, or a double-witness system is used to prevent mix-ups.
How often does Jetanin perform quality-control audits on its lab?
Jetanin states that it undergoes annual quality-control audits as part of its ISO 15189 and ISO 15190 standards. However, the specific audit results are not published.
Can I visit the Jetanin embryology lab before treatment?
Jetanin does not publicly state whether lab tours are available. Contact the hospital directly to inquire about virtual or in-person visits.
What happens if a storage tank fails at Jetanin?
No public information describes a contingency plan for tank failure. Patients should ask about backup tanks, alarm systems, and staff response protocols.
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.
