Quick version
NIPT tests are expensive because the analysis is based on advanced DNA technology, requires highly specialized laboratory expertise and is performed by a limited number of accredited operators. Together with high demands on medical precision, quality assurance and accountability, this makes NIPT significantly different from regular blood tests – both in complexity and in cost.
Behind the analysis lies a much more advanced and resource-intensive process than many people first realize. But at first glance, an NIPT test looks like a completely normal blood test. A prick in the arm, a drop of blood – and then the sample is ready. However, it is only after that that the truly advanced process begins, which we will go through.
NIPT is a DNA analysis
The test is based on the analysis of freely circulating DNA in the pregnant woman's blood, of which a small proportion comes from the fetus. Isolating and analyzing this genetic material requires advanced DNA sequencing, sophisticated bioinformatics and highly specialized laboratory expertise.
DNA analysis is fundamentally much more resource-intensive than traditional blood tests that measure, for example, hormones or inflammation markers. This directly results in higher costs, both technically and in personnel.
Few accredited actors in Sweden
Unlike many other laboratory analyses, NIPT is not something that can be performed anywhere. In Sweden, there are only a few actors with the right expertise, technology and accreditation to carry out the analysis in a safe and reliable manner.
One of these is the Karolinska University Laboratory, which offers fully accredited NIPT analysis within routine clinical care. This creates a high degree of security and medical quality. At the same time, it also means that access is limited and that the analysis cannot be compared with more standardized blood tests performed by many different laboratories around the country.
This means high quality, patient safety and medical reliability – but also that competition is very limited. When the NIPT analysis requires:
- genetic sequencing
- strict quality and safety requirements
- national accreditation
- medical validation of each step
- final answer and medical report of the result
The process means that the cost picture is completely different than for standard samples. The lack of alternative laboratories therefore also affects the cost of the analysis.
Safety, responsibility and medical precision
NIPT results can also form the basis for very difficult and life-changing decisions. Therefore, extreme demands are placed on the precision, traceability and quality assurance of the analysis.
It is not just about technology, but about responsibility. An incorrect answer can have major consequences – both medically and emotionally. In this perspective, the cost also reflects the responsibility that rests on the laboratory but also on the healthcare provider.
The fact that the accuracy is so high despite the complexity of the method is a result of extensive quality systems, medical expertise and careful validation, something that also requires resources.
Our role as a healthcare provider
Through the Testmottagningen, we offer NIPT as a healthcare provider. This means that you pay for the analysis and referral through us yourself. A medical assessment is carried out and then we send a referral to the Karolinska University Laboratory for analysis.
The sample can currently only be performed in Stockholm, at Närlab and other sampling units that are directly affiliated with Karolinska. This is a requirement to ensure correct sample handling and the highest possible analysis quality throughout the entire process.
Our ambition is to offer NIPT as the most cost-effective alternative possible, without compromising medical quality, the reliability of the analysis or patient safety. By working with accredited actors and clear medical processes, we can make the test available to more people – with the same high demands on safety at every step.
For those who want to read more about how NIPT works, which chromosomal abnormalities are analyzed and where the test can be performed, we have in-depth information about NIPT-testet. It describes the medical content of the test, who it is suitable for and how booking and referral management are handled – so that you as a prospective parent can make an informed decision based on your own needs and circumstances.