BioFire FilmArray GI Panel:
Traditional testing methods for gastrointestinal infections and related conditions have become passe and newer, more advanced methods have been introduced in the medical space. These new methods take care of all the downsides of the former ones, offering speed and accuracy. BioFire FilmArray is one of the latest methods that has led to meaningful cost and resource savings while simultaneously offering accurate diagnosis of gastrointestinal ailments. The labs across the country have started incorporating this approach for its numerous benefits.
What Traditional Testing is Not a Preferable Approach Anymore?
Various pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, and parasites, may lead to infections in the digestive system. The symptoms these pathogens cause are strikingly similar, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, cramping, vomiting, fever, and chills, among others. As the symptoms are relatively similar to each other, it becomes difficult to find the underlying cause of the symptoms with traditional testing measures. Testing with this method merely becomes a guessing game.
When the lab test reports come, the professionals decide which pathogens to test for. If the tests come up negative, they order further testing for additional pathogens. Consequently, the entire process becomes very time-consuming. Neither the patients nor the lab attendants look forward to giving their time to repeated testing.
The labor-intensive method is equally costly, adding insult to injury. The tests do not provide actionable results, making this approach of testing more questionable than the latest methods.
What are the Benefits of BioFire FilmArray GI Panel for Gastrointestinal Infections Testing?
When compared to older testing methods, BioFire offers multiple benefits, including the following.
A Systematic and Syndromic Approach
As opposed to the traditional testing method, the BioFire GI Panel is comprehensive and fast. According to healthcare professionals, the test results return in about an hour on a menu of 22 different pathogens associated with gastrointestinal infections.
The syndromic approach offered by this method allows for simultaneous testing for multiple pathogens. It increases the chances of highlighting a causative pathogen. According to studies, BioFire GI Panel improves diagnostic yield by 35% compared to other testing methods. The average time result is drastically reduced.
A Streamlined Testing Workflow
BioFire GI Panel testing offers a streamlined workflow. It is speedy, easy to use, and covers a comprehensive menu that helps save time and money for the labs. The panel reduces the number of send-out tests and the need for repetitive testing.
The panel requires only 2 minutes of hands-on time for the technician to prepare the pouch. It is then inserted into the BioFire FilmArray system module and is made to run. Within an hour, this system offers a detailed report of the targets detected in the sample.
In addition, this system enables the labs to simplify test ordering and minimize manual data entry, which paves the way for efficiency and accuracy of the report. Different types of systems can sample over 100 patients each day.
Decreased Healthcare Expenditures
One of the most vital areas that makes BioFire GI Panel testing more preferable over traditional testing methods is cost savings. For healthcare organizations, this system is a suitable way to save additional costs on procedures.
According to the latest data, the BioFire GI Panel has resulted in an estimated healthcare cost savings of $293.61 per patient. This system helps reduce downstream procedures, such as X-rays, ultrasounds, endoscopies, and CT scans. Additionally, this system may lead to a reduction in the use of antibiotics.
Improved Outcomes for Outpatient Clinics
Clinics with the ability to run moderate complexity tests may witness value in deploying the BioFire GI Panel. The institutions, such as urgent care clinics, family practice clinics, paediatrician clinics, and gastroenterology offices, may offer more timely diagnoses for GI infections with the help of this system.
As the results are made available within an hour, these clinics may be able to provide results during the patient visit, reducing the need for follow-ups. Furthermore, this system may assist in other areas, including the reduction of unnecessary downstream testing, operational efficiency, increasing confidence in treatment plans, and enabling the right treatment.
What Does BioFire FilmArray Torch System Include?
The BioFire FilmArray Torch System utilizes multiplex PCR technology to test for a comprehensive grouping of targets in an hour.
This system is compatible with a six-panel syndromic portfolio.
The reduced footprints offer up to six times the throughput per square foot for lab bench space.
The scalable configuration allows customized throughput.
There is a simplified workflow featuring a touchscreen interface and an integrated barcode scanner.
The data management automation includes LIS connectivity and random-access operation.
The gastrointestinal testing menu includes 22 targets on the BioFire GI Panel, with five viruses, four parasites, and thirteen bacteria commonly associated with GI infections.
Takeaway
With an overall accuracy of 98.5%, the BioFire FilmArray GI panel has become a sought-after method of testing for gastrointestinal infections across various labs. Contact your nearest pathology lab and inquire about the pricing and other information. Some labs even allow for free demonstrations.