Launch of the Home Sputum Collection Project

Posted on September 27, 2021   |   
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This article was reviewed by the Bronchiectasis and NTM Content Review and Evaluation Committee.

The COPD Foundation, in partnership with NTM Info and Research (NTMir) and National Jewish Health (NJH) is now offering a limited number of NTM patients access to our cost-free home sputum collection program. Instead of having to travel to a lab to get their sputum sample tested, patients will be instructed on how to collect a high-quality home sputum sample and mail their specimen to the full-service mycobacteriology laboratory at NJH, where it will be tested.

As a part of this pilot project, neither patients nor physicians will be responsible for any costs associated with receiving or shipping the home sputum kit, nor will they have to pay for the laboratory testing of their sample.

Now more than ever, the need for home testing kits is essential. While some patients have access to full-service laboratories like the one at NJH, many others commonly face inconclusive or sub-par test results. This often necessitates repeated sputum testing and creates diagnosis and treatment delays.

We believe that reducing the time period between symptom onset and diagnosis is key to improving the quality of life for individuals afflicted with NTM lung disease. By providing patients around the country access to top tier laboratories through our new home sputum program, we are confident we can achieve this goal together.

Please visit the Home Sputum Collection Project webpage for more information on eligibility, FAQs, and instructional materials.