Reforming the Pandemic Response

As a result of the recent SARS-CoV-2 Molecular Testing Survey (1), the Association for Molecular Pathology has developed five key recommendations that aim to improve the response to the current crisis and potential future pandemics. Labs must:

1. Reassess the type and location of required testing services, from acutely presenting patients to “back to work” clearance, adapting methods to suit different scenarios. 
2. Prioritize allocation of testing methods and materials according to real-time feedback on clinical testing needs, which change over time.
3. Improve communication and transparency between laboratories and suppliers so that labs can better prepare themselves around resource availability and shipment information.
4. Ensure that labs coordinate regionally in real time to share any excess testing capacity, helping to prevent communication and resource bottlenecks.
5. Standardize reporting formats and processes for infectious diseases during a pandemic through logistical support, defining minimal required data elements, and preventing duplicate reports.