The samples stored in the Michigan Neonatal Biobank are de-identified.

The information associated with each of the stored dried blood specimens may be sufficient for performing linkages with other statewide databases such as live births and death records, birth defects registry, and the cancer registry. Some of these linkages are performed and stored at the Michigan Department of Community Health on a regular basis while others may be developed when different research questions emerge. These linked files can serve as a resource for locating study cases and for population based control selection, depending on the approved research protocol. 

All linked files are created, managed and maintained at the Michigan Department of Community Health.

Examples of data linkages