Testing Technology Trends
Experts Discuss Over-the-Counter Influenza Tests: A Roundtable Discussion
In a groundbreaking white paper released July 15, by Arizona State University’s College of Health Solutions lead researchers Mara Aspinall and Matthew Scotch say OTC tests for the flu would have tremendous potential to improve health outcomes.
The growth and success of over-the-counter (OTC) tests for COVID-19 diagnosis in recent years have invited discussion about the value and impact of OTC influenza diagnostics. Despite the seasonality of the virus and the staggering number of individuals infected every year, there are still no widely accessible OTC at-home tests for influenza.
A virtual roundtable was convened on March 22, 2024, to discuss the benefits and weaknesses of OTC influenza testing as well as issues that need to be considered when developing and commercializing these tests. The 22-member roundtable, moderated by Arizona State University College of Health Solutions faculty, consisted of infectious disease experts, clinical physicians, public health experts, patient advocates, and representatives from retail pharmacies and the diagnostics industry. Specific topics discussed included accessibility to testing; patient, provider, and payor education; and considerations for designing and implementing potential OTC diagnostic influenza tests.
About the author
Mara G. Aspinall co-founded the biomedical diagnostics program at Arizona State University’s College of Health Solutions, which is the first program dedicated entirely to diagnostics as an independent discipline. Professor of practice, College of Health Solutions
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