Key points
How to submit specimens to CDC
There are currently two methods for public health organizations to submit specimens to CDC for testing:
1. The CDC Specimen Test Order and Reporting (CSTOR) Web Portal is CDC's preferred method of specimen submission.
2. The Global File Accessioning Template (GFAT) remains available for organizations with urgent submissions that aren't already onboarded to CSTOR. The GFAT includes the same data fields as the now retired 50.34 Specimen Submission Form. However, we encourage any eligible non-onboarded public health organizations to request to onboard to CSTOR as soon as possible to prevent any delays or lapses in specimen submission.
CDC 50.34 Specimen Submission Form (retired)
CDC retired the 50.34 Specimen Submission Form Application on October 30, 2026, to modernize and streamline the specimen submission process. The preferred method of specimen submission is the CDC's Specimen Test Order and Reporting (CSTOR) Web Portal.
Resources
Infectious Diseases Specimen Submission (IDSS) Help Desk
Email: CDC_ID_lab_info@cdc.gov
Phone (Toll free): 1-855-612-7575 The
IDSS Help Desk hours of operation are:
M–F: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST
Closed on federal holidays.
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