What is Direct Access Testing?

Direct Access Testing (DAT) is the term and acronym given to medical laboratory tests that are requested and purchased by a consumer rather than ordered by a healthcare professional. Consumers who purchase DAT pay for the service when or before the testing takes place. The test results are issued to the consumer, not to a healthcare provider.

Where is DAT available?

There are many testing facilities in the country that offer DAT. DAT testing is a growing trend, although it is not permitted in all states. Some states strictly prohibit DAT, while others limit it, and some do not address DAT at all.

North Carolina has an interesting situation with HIV testing. State law prohibits a clinical laboratory from performing an HIV test without a physician’s order. This is a controversial DAT issue because the law does not prohibit an individual from requesting the test. Therefore, an individual can request the HIV test without a physician’s order from a laboratory in a state that permits DAT without restrictions. Other than HIV testing, North Carolina rules and regulations do not address DAT.

Disclaimer: Information provided on BloodRights’ website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.