The Ministry of Health is exploring the possibility of conducting point-of-care testing in Guyana for COVID-19 as a means of achieving a faster turn-around time for results, which could be available in as little as 15 minutes.
This was announced on Wednesday by Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony during a COVID-19 update, although he cautioned that the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) diagnostic test remains the gold standard for testing.
“They’re not as accurate as the PCR but they are accurate. But if we get those machines and when we use them, if we have any inconclusive result we will then be able to revert back to the PCR,” Dr Anthony noted, while pointing out that results could be available within 15 to 45 minutes as opposed to the 24 or 48 hours that some patients have to wait with PCR testing.
Since assuming office last month, Anthony has said the ministry was exploring numerous options in various areas to combat the spread of COVID-19 and to improve the turn over time for results of samples taken. Due to Guyana’s limited capacity, there have been backlogs in the processing of samples collected for COVID-19 testing, resulting in some patients waiting weeks before receiving their results.
The minister also said the ministry is working out the likelihood of acquiring the machines and consumables to go with it. Though the test can be a bit more expensive, he mentioned that the ministry has been in talks with a number of companies to have the test here in Guyana.
He added that it is an option because when persons go to the clinical sites and those machines are there, those patients would have their diagnosis quicker without having to wait 24 to 48 hours. “So that really is going to change how you respond and the kind of care you are able to offer. Those machines, as you do not require a laboratory setting as we need now for the PCR,” the minister stated while adding that those machines whenever acquired can be deployed to the hinterland regions that do not have robust laboratory structures.
Meanwhile he stated that as fast as the machines are made, they are purchased by countries for use. “Nevertheless we have been working with some global partners to see whether or not we can secure them but that’s what we have or eyes on and hopefully we’ll be able to get a few of these machines to Guyana,” the minister optimistically stated.
