Considerations for adoption and use of multidisease testing devices in integrated laboratory networks (TB, HIV and hepatitis)

SUMMARY:
Several new laboratory technologies are available or are being developed to allow for testing of different conditions using disease-specific tests on the same platform. In settings where laboratory testing has been traditionally organized by disease programme, the introduction of multidisease testing devices brings new opportunities for collaboration and integration, which can provide significant system efficiencies and cost savings, increase patient access, and ultimately improve quality of care. This information note provides a strategic overview of key implementation considerations for diagnostic integration using these devices, and is primarily intended for use by national laboratory services and TB, HIV, and hepatitis programme managers. It may also be of interest to managers of maternal, newborn and child health programmes and sexual and reproductive health programmes, international and bilateral agencies, and organizations that provide financial and technical support to the relevant national health programmes.

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