The centralized prenatal genetics screening program of New York City: II. Establishment of prenatal diagnosis laboratory.

Prenatal diagnosis of genetic disorders is now being made available to an increasing number of New York City women through the establishment of a large centralized laboratory. This laboratory contracts to provide genetic diagnostic services to municipal and private hospitals throughout the New York City area. It is the first project of such magnitude in the United States. Prior to the receipt of samples for diagnostic purposes, the laboratory was required to meet the highest technical standards, as established by a Cytogenetics Advisory Committee. A set of guidelines was drawn up detailing the procedure and protocols for all the analyses and the reporting of results, including a timetable according to which results were to be obtained. The Cytogenetics Advisory Committee continues to review cases on a regular schedule. One of the unique aspects of the laboratory has been the development of back-up agreements with other area laboratories to assist in dealing with any problem that might disrupt the routine diagnostic service. The first year of operation of the laboratory has shown that financial, legal, and physical problems associated with designing and instituting a megacenter can be over-come. Similar programs should be encouraged.