Most companies that provide NIPS in Taiwan do so in conjunction with foreign laboratories (i.e. samples are sent to Beijing, Hong Kong, or the US). However, some hospitals develop proprietary techniques and do not work with commercial sequencing companies. Still others have established laboratories in Taiwan and process samples locally. Although the ability to retrieve fetal DNA from maternal blood was initially discovered in Hong Kong, Illumina (USA) is the pioneer of gene sequencing technology, and controls around 70% of market share in this industry.

For smaller companies, cooperating with foreign companies, for example, by having samples tested overseas, is practical because it can reduce costs. However, as a result of strict Department of Health and Welfare (ROC) regulations, many companies resort to smuggling samples out of the country. Therefore parents should be familiar with a company’s export protocols before signing any agreement.

Many doctors in Taiwan are highly experienced, innovative, and skilled in research and development. The growing database improves the statistical reliability and also helps to lower the chance of test failure due to poor sample quality or low amounts of fetal DNA.

Most examples of international cooperation involve buying equipment overseas; and not the sharing of technical expertise, test algorithms, or data libraries. So when it comes to choosing the right testing company, you should consider the following:

• Heredity/clinical consulting window: If the mother does not clearly understand the results report, the company should make a legally registered genetic counselor available to provide high quality consulting, thereby forgoing the need for parents to consult with a 3rd party doctor, saving them time and money.
• Local testing: The resources needed to support a laboratory are substantial; therefore, companies which invest in and maintain their own laboratories tend to be more credible and reputable. Proprietary laboratories also save time and reduce unnecessary processing risks.
• Research collaboration with prestigious overseas companies: A comprehensive database, reliable algorithm, and experienced technicians are all very important for NIPS testing. Leveraging large numbers of samples and a vast experience base can no doubt help elevate the accuracy and success rate of testing.