[Doctor's Explanation] Can NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing) Be Done Outside of Hospitals? Differences Between Certified Facilities and Specialized Institutions and How to Choose

2026.06.03

In conclusion, NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing) does not necessarily need to be done at a large hospital. While blood collection must be performed at a medical institution, in addition to "certified medical institutions," there is also the option of using "specialized testing institutions" that have no age restrictions.

What Is NIPT?

NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing) is a non-definitive screening test that analyzes fetal-derived DNA fragments contained in a pregnant woman's blood to assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities.

Places Where You Can Take NIPT and Their Differences

There are broadly two ways to take NIPT: through a "certified medical institution" or a "specialized testing institution." It is important to correctly understand the characteristics of each and choose the option that fits your purpose.

Testing at a Certified Medical Institution

This is a method of testing at core facilities (such as university hospitals) and affiliated facilities (such as clinics) that have passed review by the Japanese Association of Medical Sciences (1).

• Test scope: Limited to 3 conditions — trisomy 21 (Down syndrome), trisomy 18, and trisomy 13.
• Requirements: In principle, genetic counseling is required before and after testing.
• Benefits: A support system with counselors who have specialized knowledge of genetics is in place, with over 650 facilities nationwide (as of April 2026) (1).

Testing at a Specialized Testing Institution

This method involves applying to an institution that specializes in NIPT, having blood drawn at an affiliated clinic, and sending the sample for analysis.

• Test scope: In addition to the 3 conditions, this can also assess the risk of sex chromosome abnormalities (such as Turner syndrome) and microdeletion syndromes (such as DiGeorge syndrome) that are difficult to detect with standard chromosomal testing.
• Requirements: Often has no age restrictions, offering more options.
• Benefits: Flexible and quick testing that can be arranged according to your place of residence and hospital visit schedule.

Comparison Table: Differences Between Certified Medical Institutions and Specialized Testing Institutions

3 Important Points When Choosing a Specialized Testing Institution

When using a specialized testing institution, check the following three points to ensure you receive an accurate interpretation of results and appropriate aftercare.

1. Whether a Follow-up Support System Is in Place After a Positive Result

NIPT is not a definitive diagnosis. Even when a high-risk result is returned, there are cases where the probability that an abnormality is actually present (positive predictive value) is low, particularly for younger pregnant women or certain conditions (2). False positives can also occur due to "confined placental mosaicism," where the placenta has a chromosomal abnormality but the fetus does not (3).
For this reason, be sure to check whether there is a subsidy program for the cost of definitive diagnostic tests such as amniocentesis, and whether there is a point of contact for consulting a certified genetic counselor.

2. Transparency of Testing Accuracy and Track Record

As an indicator of an institution's reliability, check whether it holds international quality standards such as ISO9001, and whether track record data on testing accuracy is clearly published.

3. Accurate Understanding of Test Items and a Good Consultation Environment

It is not necessarily true that "more test items is better." Expanding the range of target conditions can include rare conditions with a lower positive predictive value. Large-scale overseas studies also recommend that NIPT be provided together with appropriate counseling (4). It is important to consult with a doctor or specialized staff at the testing institution beforehand, so you can choose your test items with a clear understanding.

＼Find out your risk of Down syndrome or sex chromosome conditions during pregnancy／

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1. Can I take NIPT at a nearby clinic?

A. Yes, you can. Blood collection is available at clinics registered as affiliated facilities of certified medical institutions, or at nearby clinics affiliated with a specialized testing institution.

Q2. Is the testing accuracy of specialized testing institutions low?

A. It varies by institution. Specialized testing institutions that publish their track record and hold international quality standards (such as ISO9001) maintain high testing accuracy.

Q3. What should I do if I receive a high-risk (positive) result?

A. Since NIPT is a screening test, a definitive diagnosis requires tests such as amniocentesis. If you receive a high-risk result, promptly consult the testing institution's support desk or a genetic counselor and consider undergoing a definitive test.

Q4. Is it better to have more test items?

A. Not necessarily. Including rare chromosomal abnormalities can increase the rate of false positives, which can in turn lower the positive predictive value. It is recommended that test items be decided after consulting with specialized staff.

[References]

(1) Prenatal Testing Certification System Operating Committee, "List of Certified Medical Institutions and Certified Testing/Analysis Institutions"
(2) Prenatal Testing Certification System Operating Committee, "About NIPT"
(3) Genes. 2024.
(4) Genetics in Medicine. 2023.

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