Laboratory Services
Our in-house CLIA-certified biochemical and molecular genetics laboratory offers a variety of testing options for patients. Some of the most common tests include amino acid analysis, real-time molecular diagnostic testing, molecular cytogenetic analysis, next-generation sequencing (our Plain Insight Panel™), and exploratory gene mapping.
Since we are a non-profit organization substantially supported by the unique populations we serve, our laboratory cannot accept outside samples and reserves the right to refuse samples sent without prior authorization.
Most molecular genetic testing is limited to pathogenic variants found in Old Order Amish and Mennonite populations. Information regarding our laboratory services is below for the benefit of our patients and their local healthcare providers.
Lab Requirements
Molecular Genetic Analysis
2-3 ml whole blood in EDTA (lavender top tube) kept refrigerated until shipping. Do not freeze whole blood. Ship whole blood at room temperature by priority overnight express (FedEx or UPS). A fully completed and signed consent and requisition form must accompany the sample (form works best in Adobe). To view the list of diseases and variants, please click here.
Amino Acid Analysis
Either:
- >1 ml serum or plasma, frozen and shipped on dry ice
- Filter paper (Guthrie card) with four, >1-cm-diameter dried blood spots
Shipping Requirements
Ship by Priority Overnight Express (either FedEx or UPS, not USPS) Monday through Thursday. Our new facility’s address for FedEx or UPS is 20 Community Lane, Gordonville, PA 17529.
If samples are shipped on a Friday, they will not reach our laboratory until Monday.
If critical testing is required over a weekend, you must call the Clinic at 717-687-9407 and speak to the on-call physician to make special delivery arrangements.
A completed and signed consent and requisition form must accompany all samples submitted to the laboratory (form works best in Adobe).
Consent and Requisition Forms
All requests for molecular genetic testing (carrier tests, diagnostic tests, etc.) must be accompanied by a completed and signed consent and requisition form (form works best in Adobe).
Shipping
Please read the specimen requirements above and ship samples by priority overnight express (FedEx or UPS) Monday – Thursday to the following address:
Clinic for Special ChildrenAttn: Laboratory
20 Community Lane
Gordonville, PA 17529
Alternate Address
If you must ship through the US Postal Service (NOT advised for laboratory samples except dried blood spots for amino acid analysis), please use the following address, noting the change in town and zip code:
Clinic for Special Children
Attn: Laboratory
P.O. Box 500
Intercourse, PA 17534
If you have any questions, please call us at 717-687-9407 or email queries@clinicforspecialchildren.org.
Pricing & Payment
The Clinic for Special Children does not bill insurance companies. Since we are a non-profit organization, laboratory services are offered at a reduced cost compared to other laboratories. If payment is not received with the sample, or prior arrangements have not been made with our billing staff, the test may be delayed or refused. Current charges are as follows:
Targeted variant testing | $80 (diagnostic or carrier testing for a known, specific variant)
Plain Insight Panel™ | $150 (carrier screening for over 1,300 variants found in Plain communities)
Amino acid analysis | $85
Fragment analysis | $150 (includes SMN1 copy number testing)
Ordering Genetic Testing Guidelines Sheet
To download a printable flyer detailing our laboratory guidelines, please click HERE.
CLIA ID: 39D0662473, PA Lab ID: 021547, EIN: 23-2555373
DISEASES & VARIANTS
For carrier or diagnostic testing for a known specific variant, please specify the variant.
SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT
The Clinic provides primary medical care for children and adults with complex genetic disorders. All new patient applications are reviewed by our clinical staff.
Support our mission of providing compassionate, affordable, and efficient care to families facing rare genetic disorders!
Our clinic serves as a trusted medical practice for children and adults facing rare genetic disorders. Our dedicated team works every day to prevent and treat genetic illnesses. Our facility is in the heart of the Amish and Mennonite communities in Lancaster County. Inside is filled with cutting-edge gene sequencing tools that allow us to deliver highly personalized care—a precise treatment option for the right patient at the right time.