In January, Bath Community Hospital began using the LumiraDx SARS-CoV-2 Ag test as part of their community COVID testing program. The many reasons to begin using this UK-based diagnostics platform were obvious.
The LumiraDX Antigen test offers results within 12 minutes, and with four instruments in place, the medical staff can test four people at once. This enables the physician to verify infection quickly, begin proper treatment, and initiate isolation precautions, if necessary, helping prevent the further spread of infection. When there is a line of cars waiting in the parking lot for testing, this is a huge plus for the
medical staff.
This SARS-CoV-2 antigen test has been authorized for use in asymptomatic individuals without the need for serial screening. Currently, most point of care antigen tests are authorized only for symptomatic patients and require a repeat test for more assurance.
In clinical studies, LumiraDX demonstrated 97.6% positive agreement with RT-PCR methods and 96.6% negative percent agreement.
The previous test method cost upwards of $40, whereas this one is only $14.50.
Tara Craft, BCH Laboratory Director, said, “The microfluidics technology and authorized use in asymptomatic individuals sets the LumiraDX apart from other antigen test methods on the market. After performing over 400 community COVID tests in January alone, we are excited to have the LumiraDX platform so that we can offer an ample supply of tests to our community going forward.”
In late September 2021, BCH informed the community that they were navigating a short supply of rapid tests. Fortunately, this company has no sign of supply issues.
If you need to be tested for COVID-19, please contact our BCH COVID TEST LINE for an appointment at 540-679-0817.