From the upcoming September issue of Repertoire Magazine
August 17, 2020 – Each year, despite forewarning, the United States and European countries are sometimes caught off guard with a “Perfect Storm” of challenges for the influenza season. Physician offices should be stocking up on flu tests and other supplies in preparation for this year’s flu season. What do they need to know before they choose a flu test?
What clinicians and distributors can do to prepare
First, conducting a business assessment of what the clinicians experienced last year and looking at historical data can help dictate a plan to ensure they procure enough product.
Second, weigh the pros and cons of the tests they are currently using and tests they might be considering. Clinicians should consider the following:
- Performance: Is test sensitivity and specificity the most critical?
- Volume: How many tests does your facility perform during an average flu season?
- Ease of Use: How simple is the test to perform?
- CLIA Complexity: Does the facility require Waived Complexity or Moderate Complexity Tests?
- Results reporting: Is it important for your facility to have an instrument-based result or visual read result, or is either one acceptable?
- Sample type: Does the test need to allow for multiple sample types (nasal, nasopharyngeal, aspirate/wash, and/or viral transport media (VTM))?
- Connectivity: Does the device need to be able to transmit the results electronically?
- Cost of the test
- The time to result
- Does the test require confirmation testing for negative results?
What’s Out There?
There are several types of flu tests available on the market.
- Rapid molecular tests detect the genetic material of the virus and typically produce results in 30 minutes or less. These are considered to be more accurate than other methods.
- Rapid lateral flow immunochemical tests can be either read visually or by an instrument and are intended to detect the presence (or absence) of a target antigen in 15 minutes or less.
Depending on what characteristics are important to the clinician will help determine what type of test is a good fit for the facility. The manufacturer and distribution
representative would be able to help guide the clinician to a product that is just right for them.
The 5 “Ps”
In the end, it comes down to the 5 “Ps” – Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance! Physicians shouldn’t be afraid to keep stock of flu tests all year round. Understand new options – with the fear of changing strains, new technologies are more important than ever. Just remember, you have choices!
Learn more about options at www.flutesting.com. Article contribution by Sekisui Diagnostics.