Using technology to reduce unnecessary or poor quality testing

ASID member Dr Max Bloomfield, a New Zealand based Infectious Diseases Physician & Clinical Microbiologist has been working with the team at Wellington Southern Community Laboratories to develop diagnostic, a smartphone app containing recommended best practice approaches to the diagnosis of various infections.

The content is aimed at both primary care and hospital healthcare providers and has advice regarding best use of common microbiology sample types and best tests for specific infections. It aims to optimise the diagnosis of infections, while reducing unnecessary or poor-quality testing. The steps are easy to follow and in a format that is accessible for community and hospital doctors, nurses, midwives and others to use. It could be a useful educational tool for trainees also.

The app is available for Apple and Android users and is currently being trialed in New Zealand.

This is another great example of how technology can be invaluable in improving infection diagnosis.