PATHCHAT Edition
Published: 2024
Please contact your local Ampath pathologist for more information.
Why is a DNA Test Important for Estate Planning?
✅ Simplifies Legal and Estate Claims
- When someone dies, claims against their estate, insurance policies, or pension funds may arise.
- Many of these claims depend on proving biological relationships.
- A verified DNA test can confirm or exclude biological connections, ensuring fair estate distribution.
✅ Legally Recognized and Secure Process
- Ampath Laboratories provides a legally valid Chain of Custody for all DNA tests.
- DNA evidence is often the deciding factor in legal disputes over inheritance.
📌 DNA testing helps resolve estate claims efficiently by proving biological relationships.
How Does a DNA Test Work?
✅ Step-by-Step Process
- Consent and Sample Collection:
- The individual being tested signs a consent form at an Ampath facility.
- A cheek swab is taken using a sterile collection method.
- Secure Chain of Custody:
- The sample is carefully labelled and securely transported to the Ampath National Reference Laboratory.
- DNA Extraction and Analysis:
- The Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technique is used to analyze 27 specific DNA regions (larger than most standard profiles).
- Capillary electrophoresis is performed using an ABI Prism 3500 Genetic Analyser to generate an electropherogram.
- Results and Storage:
- DNA profiles are available within one week.
- Samples are securely stored for 10 years for future comparison.
📌 Ampath’s DNA profiling process ensures accuracy, reliability, and long-term usability for estate claims.
Ensuring Accuracy and Reliability
✅ Strict Testing Protocols
- DNA samples must be collected by an independent Ampath Laboratory nurse.
- Chain of Custody is strictly maintained to prevent tampering or misidentification.
✅ Limitations of Testing
- Recent blood transfusions or bone marrow transplants may interfere with results.
📌 Independent sample collection and strict laboratory controls ensure reliable and legally valid results.
How is Personal Data Protected?
✅ Compliance with Privacy Laws
- All DNA data is processed under the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).
- Strict confidentiality applies to DNA reports, with access granted only to authorized individuals.
✅ Access and Security Measures
- Reports are password-protected and only available to the signatory or their legally assigned representatives.
- If required by law, Ampath can release reports under the conditions outlined in the consent form.
📌 DNA testing at Ampath is conducted with full legal compliance and data protection measures.
Key Benefits of DNA Profiling for Estate Administration
✅ Reliable and Legally Valid Testing
- SANAS-accredited tests (audited annually).
- Samples are reusable for 10 years for future comparisons.
✅ Convenient and Secure Process
- No GP consultation required.
- Guaranteed appointment time.
- Simple, non-invasive collection method.
✅ Easy and Confidential Reporting
- Password-protected reports emailed to nominated recipients.
- Includes a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) section for clarity.
- Access to medical scientists for results discussion.
📌 Ampath’s DNA profiling simplifies estate administration with a secure, accurate, and legally recognized testing process.
Contact Information
✅ For DNA Profiling Appointments and Enquiries:
- Ampath Customer Care: 012 678 1000
- Visit: ampath.co.za
📌 DNA profiling is the most efficient way to resolve inheritance claims and ensure fair estate distribution.