This should be handled as any other patient material.  If they request
it, give it to them unless there is a legal reason not to release the
specimen, in which case they would need a court order.  Otherwise,
definitely have them sign a release acknowledging receipt and informed
status regarding Formalin (if necessary).  You may want to check with
your medical records department if you are in a hospital.  I have found
there are many laws and regulations regarding who may or may not pick up
specimens and what types of identification are required.

R. Don Luke 
South Georgia Medical Center
Department of Pathology
2501 N. Patterson St
Valdosta, GA 31602
(912) 259-4830

>-----Original Message-----
>From:	Sharkiemom@aol.com [SMTP:Sharkiemom@aol.com]
>Sent:	Sunday, March 28, 1999 7:58 AM
>To:	histonet@pathology.swmed.edu
>Subject:	gallstones
>
>How many histonetters are giving gallstones back to patients after their
>surgery?
>Do you have them sign a release? I'm hoping to convince the boss to change
>the
>way we do this (or not give them out altogether, which is my preference). Any
>input would be helpful.
>Thanks
>