The Idaho Bureau of Laboratories (IBL) maintains strict guidelines regarding receipt and processing of samples. Clinical microbiology samples are accepted only from physicians, health clinics, and district health departments.
Before submitting a sample, it is highly recommended that you consult the Bureau's Sampling and Submission Guide. There you will find information on specimen collection techniques and procedures for safe packaging of your samples for transport. Samples must be received in the appropriate packaging for the testing process to be successful. There are also Federal Guidelines related to the containment and transport of certain types of samples.
Samples must be accompanied by the proper submission form for the test requested. Links to commonly used sample submission forms can be found below. These forms may be printed and used for sample submission. If the form you need is not listed here, or if you are unsure of the form you need, please call 208-334-2235. Listed below the submission forms are links to packaging and shipping job aids.
Microbiology Submission Forms
Packaging and Labeling Requirements for the Shipment of Biological Substances
The IBL Microbiology Section is an active member of the Laboratory Response Network (LRN). The LRN is a collaborative and voluntary system of healthcare laboratories designed to increase the nation's capability to efficiently response to public health emergencies. A collection of Sentinel Level Clinical Microbiology Laboratory Guidelines can be found at the American Society for Microbiology website. IBL is available to assist sentinel laboratories by providing reference level testing, planning support, training, and exercise.