MEMO

TO: Physicians Laboratory Clients

FROM: Physicians Laboratory

DATE: 3/20/2025

SUBJECT: Patient Collected Samples

­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­This memo serves to inform all ordering providers of Physicians Laboratory’s policy regarding the acceptance of self-collected vaginal samples in the clinical setting for Pap Testing, HPV, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomonas testing.

The use of self-collected vaginal samples for these specific tests is considered off-label by our laboratory.  While self-collection may be a more desirable option for certain patients, our laboratory’s current validation and accreditation are based on provider-collected samples. Accepting off-label samples poses potential risks to the accuracy and reliability of test results.

Provider-collected samples generally ensure proper collection technique, and anatomical location, minimizing the risk of inadequate or compromised samples. Self-collected samples may be subject to variability in collection technique, potentially leading to inaccurate results.

NOTE:

Samples received that are self-collected samples will be rejected and the ordering provider will be notified.

We understand that self-collection may be a preferred option for some patients. However, our priority is to maintain the highest standards of accuracy and reliability in our testing for best patient care.

We appreciate your cooperation and adherence to this policy.

Please contact Physicians Laboratory if you have any questions or require further clarification.

Sincerely,

Araylla Hennigar, BA SCT(ASCP)                                                 Raed Sulaiman, MD

Cytology General Supervisor                                                             Medical Director