An expert panel discussed the impact of COVID-19 on the diagnostics sector at a one-day gathering of medical technology organisations, clinicians and regulators.

On 22 June 2021 Dr Joy Allen reflected on the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and the work of the NIHR Newcastle MIC at MedTech Integrates 2021.  As an expert panelist Joy discussed the future of diagnostics including testing in laboratories. It was also an opportunity to highlight the advantages of rapid diagnostic tests and the importance of evaluating them.  The panel agreed that home testing has benefits but there needs to be clear guidance for the patient.

Joy said:

“If we’re talking about empowering patients, it’s not just about giving them a test result. There needs to be good communication about what that [result] means for them.”

The session was chaired by Professor Alan Mc Nally, director of the Institute of Microbiology and Infection at University of Birmingham.  Other members of the panel represented Thriva Health, Roche Diagnostics, Salient Bioscience and Forte Medical.

Listen to the full recording of the “Testing, testing…” session by following this link.

MedTech Integrates 2021 was held as an online event and was organised by Life Science Integrates.

For a full summary of the event follow this link.