Lifeblood now offers RhD non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT)

This test is indicated for non-alloimmunised RhD negative pregnant women for prediction of fetal RhD status, to enable targeted antenatal RhD immunoglobulin prophylaxis as per the National Blood Authority’s Guideline for the prophylactic use of RhD immunoglobulin in pregnancy care.   

  
How do I request the RhD NIPT for my patient?  

A Lifeblood RhD NIPT request form is available. Samples must be provided with a request form that must include,  

• a minimum of three patient identifiers 
• the referring organisation’s contact details 
• the weeks of gestation at the time of sample collection (and/or the estimated date of confinement) 
• indication if there is known pre-existing RhD alloimmunisation 
• Name and provider number of a registered medical practitioner (as this service will be billed to MBS)  
• the patient’s status at the time of service or collection (inpatient or outpatient and relevant sub-category) 
• the patient’s assignment of benefit signature, and 
• the patient’s Medicare number, including reference number. 

 What are the sample requirements?  

• Required is 1 x dedicated 6 mL EDTA sample (essential) and if possible 1 x Streck Cell-Free DNA BCT or 1 x Roche Cell-Free DNA Collection Tube.
• Collected after 15-weeks' gestation.
• Samples to be received within 72 hours after collection.
• Referring laboratory to arrange transport of samples to Brisbane processing centre at refrigerated temperature.  

Refer to your local health services for sample collection procedures  

What is the cost?  

No charge to the patient or referring laboratory for MBS-eligible patients. (MBS bulk billed).  

For more information, click here to watch the educational webinar on RhD NIPT and visit our website for further details on fetal blood group testing.