Storage and use of residual dried blood spots

Newborn screening policy for Australia and New Zealand is developed by a committee of the Human Genetics Society of Australasia and the Royal Australasian College of Physicians Division of Pediatrics. Each program policy varies according to the local laws and customs. The residual dried blood spot policy recommends that each screening program develop its own policy taking into account the ownership of the material and the time of retention. Cards and associated records should be stored securely with regard to privacy issues. All uses of residual materials and access to stored material should be documented. Programs should state what permission and documentation is required for the use of samples in 1) investigation of cases missed by the screening program, 2) screening program development, method development and establishing normal ranges for new and existing tests, 3) requests from families for the return of samples, 4) requests from health professionals to use residual material for other health-related purposes, 5) research studies, and 6) coronial and forensic purposes. Storage of the samples must be appropriate to intended future uses and appropriate quality assurance material stored with the samples. Relevant privacy, legal and ethical issues should be considered when formulating storage and use policies. Use of dried blood spot samples for purposes other than newborn screening should also be covered.