QuantuMDx explores future of Point of Need PCR testing

QuantuMDx Group, a UK-based diagnostics company developing Point of Need molecular diagnostics, has published the Future of PCR Testing report.

This new report explores the transformative potential of Point of Need diagnostic testing for the future of healthcare globally. 

Point of Need (PoN) PCR testing provides results in situ, within minutes, and does not require laboratory skills or specialist training. 

The report is based on an extensive literature review and direct engagement with professionals working on the front line in social care. Its findings highlight the urgent need to rethink how testing works to eliminate uncertainty, relieve stress, and improve health outcomes.

Point of Need testing has significant benefits for emergency rooms, care homes, hard-to-reach communities, including migrants, students, and people living in remote areas in developing countries. By enabling consultation, diagnosis, and prescription in a single appointment, Point of Need testing can contribute to better health outcomes and reduce the risks of onward transmission. 

Jonathan O’Halloran, chief executive officer of QuantuMDx, said: “This report on the future of PCR testing is important, because at QuantuMDx we see the potential to make the standard of healthcare more uniform, across the globe. 

“By raising awareness and increasing understanding of the potential of rapid PCR testing at the PoN, we hope to empower a wide range of stakeholders to save time and money and provide better care and services. 

“We believe that by democratising access to PCR testing in this way, we can drive meaningful change in a variety of health, care, educational, and workplace settings and vastly improve health outcomes for many.”

QuantuMDx’s SARS-CoV-2 assay – for use with the proprietary Q-POC device – can be used at any location, by anyone, with minimal training. It provides lab-quality PCR test results in just 30 minutes – the same time it takes to do a lateral flow test. 

Standard PCR tests take a minimum of one to two days to come back. Our report shows that in some sectors, such as social care, the wait can be up to four days. 

The company feels Q-POC has the potential to be used in the diagnosis of many infectious diseases, from respiratory illnesses to sexually transmitted infections, gastrointestinal illnesses, and more.