Working with our CONDOR partners we have analysed clinical opinion to pinpoint where rapid COVID-19 testing could have the greatest impact in UK hospitals.

Problem

During the pandemic it was vital to have fast, reliable testing for COVID-19. However more research was needed to identify which of these new tests were the most promising for different scenarios. Allocating and placing these new tests within the most appropriate hospital departments helps to ensure patients are dealt with accordingly and receive the care they need as soon as possible.

Action

• We conducted and analysed interviews with 16 clinicians from 12 NHS Trusts across England covering 10 different specialisms.
• This enabled us to find out with suspected COVID-19 were cared for in hospital.
• This was part of the CONDOR (COVID-19 National Diagnostic Research and Evaluation Platform) programme of work.
• The project involved close collaboration with the NIHR London In Vitro Diagnostics Co-operative.

Outcome

• COVID-19 testing currently helps to guide infection control more so than treatment decisions.
• Priority for rapid testing should be given to hospitals with limited access to laboratory services and availability of single rooms.
• Rapid testing would be valuable in settings where urgent decisions need to be made such as emergency surgery, maternity services and organ transplant departments.
• This may help to reduce viral transmission within areas of the hospital where patients are waiting for test results.

Impact

• Our work informed the design of CONDOR’s clinical studies.
• Our research ensured that the evidence developed, and tests that were evaluated, were meaningful for real-world use.
• Our work helped to strongly influence economic modelling and built relationships with NICE.

Read the full article and other CONDOR publications.