Molecular Diagnostic PCR Testing vs. Culture Testing
In 2018, the University of Florida (UF) Health Shands Hospital conducted a study designed to analyze clinical data surrounding the downstream impacts of implementing PCR gastrointestinal pathogen testing.
The findings were that conventional methods — like stool culture sampling — were “time-consuming and expensive” and offered “limited sensitivity” in comparison to PCR testing.
Research Overview
UF Health Shands Hospital found that “there were 19 (7.9% of total and 24% of positive specimen) samples with more than one organism identified by the GI panel.”
Additionally…
Findings
Time Averages for Results | Additional Testing Requirements |
---|---|
GI panel results — 8.94 hours | GI panel — 0.58 additional stool tests |
Stool culture tests — 54.75 additional stool tests | Stool culture tests — 3.02 additional stool tests |
Cost-Benefit Analysis
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In summary, thanks to PCR…
- Patient hospital stays would be reduced by at least half a day
- Health care costs would decrease by an average of $293.61 per patient
Comparison & Conclusions
Thanks to this study, we can see how molecular diagnostic PCR testing saves physicians and patient both time and money.
This is because PCR testing…
- Detected more pathogens than a culture test usually would
- Reduced or eliminated the need for extra tests such as imaging
Overall, PCR testing…
- Reduced the length of time a patient needed to stay in the hospital
- Reduced the length of time it took to administer the correct antibiotics
- Reduced the length of time a patient needed to remain on antibiotic medication
- Reduced isolation costs in instances wherein a patient needed to be quarantined
Are you interested in integrating PCR testing into your practice processes as a provider? Are you looking for a reliable reference lab to partner with for fast, accurate, and convenient results? Then we would be happy to help you with our GastroPath™ test.
To learn more or get started today, simply contact NCF Diagnostics & DNA Technologies by calling (352) 375-5553.