Receiving, Accessioning, and Initial Processing

Specimens received at our laboratory can be identified and tracked by unique account and specimen numbers. After obtaining the appropriate information from the client, Alere will utilize this data to establish accounts in our database, assigning a unique Account number. These numbers are then pre-printed on chain of custody forms distributed for collecting urine specimens. Specimen ID numbers are assigned by bar-code on pre-printed chain of custody forms used in the collection process. When the specimen arrives at the laboratory for accessioning, the specimen can be tracked by this number. All of these identifiers ensure the proper routing of drug screen results to the client’s authorized personnel and/or Medical Review Officers.

During the accessioning process, Alere follows established criteria for acceptance of each specimen to ensure that it has been properly collected. These acceptability guidelines were established to protect the donor and requesting entity throughout the collection procedure. If the collection procedure has not been properly completed, the specimen is considered unacceptable for testing. Unacceptable specimens may or may not be correctable via affidavit or corrective memo from a collector. Whether correctable or not, the client and collector are notified by our staff to educate them and ensure that the mistake does not reoccur. Daily, Alere’s management monitors unacceptable reports.

Once the specimen is admitted into the lab, Alere maintains chain of custody procedures internally. Laboratory personnel record each time the specimen is stored and aliquoted for testing. They document when the specimen is opened and accepted, when the specimen is aliquoted for screening, and when the specimen is locked in temporary storage. If the specimen is suspect non-negative in screening, additional aliquots and storage for confirmation are also documented.