Wales launches rapid bacterial infection testing in pharmacies and GP surgeries
Rapid testing for bacterial infections is being rolled out in community pharmacies and GP surgeries across Wales.
The two year pilot scheme will provide near-immediate test results without the need samples being sent to laboratories, the Welsh Government has said.
As part of the project, diagnostic equipment purchased during the pandemic has been upgraded and repurposed to test for multiple bacterial infections in community settings.
It has been backed by £734,000 of Welsh Government funding and £500,000 from the INEOS Oxford Institute for Antimicrobial Research. Oxford University will be providing an independent evaluation of the project.
The Point of Care Testing (POCT) in Primary Care pilot will initially focus on C-Reactive Protein (CRP) testing, which helps clinicians identify bacterial infections and make more informed decisions about antibiotic prescribing.
More than 300 community pharmacies and GP practices in all seven health board areas in Wales have expressed an interest in participating in the trial, which also supports the global fight against antimicrobial resistance, recognised by the World Health Organisation as one of the leading threats to public health.
Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care Jeremy Miles the pilot provides a “unique opportunity for Wales to lead the way in high-quality diagnostic testing.”
“By bringing testing closer to where people live, we can improve health outcomes, reduce pressure on hospital services, and ensure more appropriate use of antibiotics,” added Mr Miles.
The partnership with Oxford University will provide rigorous, independent evaluation of the trial’s impact on antibiotic prescribing, patient outcomes, and cost-effectiveness. The research will also develop machine learning models to identify patients at risk of adverse outcomes.
Professor John Geen, clinical lead for clinical biochemistry and Point of Care testing services at Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, said: We are excited to support this study and have been an early implementor of the Lumira Dx device for the measurement of C-Reactive Protein in the community.
“This project offers the opportunity to investigate clinical decision making on the prescribing of antibiotics in patients presenting with respiratory infections and the impact of behavioural interventions, supported by diagnostic testing, in general practice and community pharmacies.
“The study also has the potential to help us understand and establish the logistics required for the provision of future diagnostic testing in the community.”
Check live fuel prices near you before you set off.
Spotted something? Got a story? Email news (@) deeside.com
NEW: Add Deeside.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our trusted coverage when you search.
Latest News
