Introduction:

In recent times DNA testing has become a known phenomenon in Ghana. The importance of DNA testing becomes more eminent with the case of Odartey Lamptey, the popular footballer. This followed the case of Asamoah Gyan and the numerous telecast cases. These cases were peculiar due to the personalities involved but the testing procedures, sampling and validation of documents were not different from the many cases that are handled on daily basis in labs and doctors’ offices in Ghana. Ghanaians’ continued knowledge of DNA testing should be a positive call to health professionals. The role of qualified health professionals remains critical even though we may not have testing labs. The significance of Chain of Custody, Sampling and validation are key procedures that professionals should be ready to play their role when they are called upon for both financial and professional satisfaction.

AIM

To deliver the theoretical knowledge, and practical skills needed to run a successful DNA test counselling clinic focusing on sampling, validation, report interpretation, detecting fraud, ensuring client retention and referrals

OBJECTIVES

1. Introduction to the general concept of DNA testing
2. Client handling, booking and preparation.
3. Detecting fraud
4. Legal and professional responsibilities.
5. Sampling
6. Shipping arrangement
7. Reporting

Benefits

1. Certificate of  complition
2. Become a Certified DNA sample collector
3. Register your office or lab as a collection center
4. Earn on referral basis

 Topic/Modules

1. The concept of DNA testing

Heading 1: Purpose/Reason for DNA testing

Heading 2: Usage of DNA testing

Heading 3: Various DNA options

Heading 3: Testing Labs

Heading 4: The role of the sampler/broker/middlemen

2. Customer Care

Heading 1: Working space

Heading 2: Interacting with clients

Heading 3: Detecting fraud

3. Legal and Professional Responsibilities – 30 minutes

Heading 1: Safety

 Heading 2: Informed consent

 Heading 3: Pros and Cons of sample types

 Heading 4: Reporting (TAT)

4. On the sampling Day – 30 minutes

Heading 1: Documentation

Heading 2: Sampling

Heading 3: Labelling

Heading 4: Preserving

Heading 5: Shipping

5. Reporting

Heading 1: Testing lab policy

Heading 2: Email and Whatsapp

Heading 3: Hardcopy

Heading 4: Reading report

Examination and Certification

1. 25 multiple-choice questions online – 50%.
2. Interview – 50%
3. Pass Mark: 70%

About the Instructor(S): Evans Kyeremeh

He is an astute Scientist with in-depth knowledge of DNA testing, sampling, validation, client relations, booking and documentation. For the past seven (7) years, he has directly been involved with over 1000 DNA testing with no hitch on his reputation, integrity and commitment.

He is the first to introduce DNA report reading on Radio and Television in Ghana

He was recently awarded a certificate to certify him as a DNA sampler by AABB (Association for the Advancement of Blood & Biotherapies formally American Association of Blood Banking), the regulator of DNA testing in the USA and Canada.

Mr Evans worked with and represented at least seven internationally renowned DNA testing laboratories.