Grampians Health begins clinical trial of new testing device to speed up triaging of COVID/Flu patients in Emergency Department
Michael Touhill, Clinical Trials Coordinator at Grampians Health, tests a sample using the new device.
Grampians Health has joined an innovative clinical trial of a new point-of-care testing solution that will enable our staff to quickly and efficiently test those presenting to our Emergency Department (ED) for COVID or flu, leading to a faster triaging process.
The study, will be overseen at Grampians Health by the Clinical Trials unit and led by esteemed Infectious Diseases Specialist Dr. Rob Commons. It aims to address the challenges faced by EDs worldwide, particularly the prolonged turnaround time associated with longform PCR tests and the sporadic availability of rapid tests.
Traditionally, EDs have grappled with the time-consuming nature of longform PCR tests, which often delay crucial results for a day or more. Moreover, the availability of rapid tests, with a typical turnaround time of 2 to 4 hours, has been inconsistent at best.
“Recognising these obstacles, our hospital is undertaking this initiative to trial a state-of-the-art point-of-care testing device, empowering healthcare professionals to promptly assess and make informed decisions about patient care,” said Matthew Hadfield, Chief Medical Officer, Grampians Health.
“This revolutionary point-of-care testing solution has the potential to significantly reduce ED turnaround times and accelerate patient care in the future. That our ED staff are able to take part in this clinical trial to help future patients and clinicians represents our hospital’s commitment to research and to providing optimal patient care.”
The use of the new point-of-care testing solution once approved by regulatory bodies is expected to have a positive impact and is anticipated to streamline operations, enhance patient outcomes, and ensure the availability of beds within the ED.
“This collaborative effort embodies our unwavering dedication to enhancing healthcare delivery,” said Dr. Commons, who is the study Principal Investigator at Grampians Health’s Ballarat site.
“By bringing together our exceptional Clinical Trials team, dedicated ED staff, and accomplished Infection Control team, we are confident in the successful implementation and testing of this cutting-edge technology.”
The trial is also a testament to Grampians Health’s unwavering commitment to research, adoption of cutting-edge technology, and the power of interdisciplinary and cross-site collaboration. Through this trial, we reinforce our position as a healthcare institution that prioritises efficient and high-quality patient care.
