Paternity Tests – The BMA Guidelines

DNA technology means it is possible to take paternity tests without medical intervention. It’s even possible to do DNA paternity tests yourself by ordering tests over the internet. There are however guidelines distributed by the British Medical Association.

If you’re looking for peace of mind paternity tests, it couldn’t be easier. You can simply order your paternity test kit online, collect the swabs and post them back. Unless you need paternity tests that can be admissible in court, you don’t need to go to a health professional but can conduct the test from the comfort of your own home.

The Ethics Department on Paternity Tests

However, the Ethics Department has issued guidelines for health professionals when it comes to paternity tests. Previously, paternity tests involved blood samples so medical professions were more involved in paternity tests. Now it’s possible to do paternity tests with a mouth swab and kits can be sent direct to the general public. There are concerns that this could lead to unethical use of DNA kits – such as taking swabs without consent. It’s possible for men to conduct paternity tests without the mother of the child’s consent.

Paternity Tests – Code of Practice

A Code of Practice issued by the Health Department has laid out the following guidelines for paternity tests:

• Consent is required for all DNA samples for paternity tests
• The views of children should be accounted for before deciding on whether or not to conduct paternity tests – if the child is of an age where they are capable of understanding the issues.
• If health professionals are involved in assisting in paternity tests, they must only do so if it’s been shown to be in the best interests of the child.
• If health professionals are issuing or advising on paternity tests, it is imperative that they outline all the possible implications of taking the test.
• Ethically, the mother and the child, if mature enough, should consent to paternity tests.

However, court orders can override issues of consent. And in general, it’s the courts view that the truth is often in the vast majority of cases, in the child’s best interests.

International Biosciences offer a broad range of paternity tests services designed to provide indisputable answers to emotional questions. Whether you seek to establish paternity, prove siblingship or research genealogy, for legal definition or peace of mind, we are able to provide the appropriate paternity tests at competitive rates, professionally and confidentially. Using state of the art technology we are able to provide conclusive evidence on time, every time. Contact International Biosciences on 01342 850945 or click here to email us.

<< Back to Paternity Tests articles