Infectious diseases: testing and follow-up questions

The path from a symptom to a test result and appropriate follow-up depends on more than a test being ordered. Availability of supplies, documentation, result communication and treatment access can all affect the patient's experience. A locally designed research project could examine one or more of these steps for a clearly defined infection or syndrome.

For example, an observational project might measure how often a requested test can be completed and how a result reaches the clinician and patient. Another could examine how reagent or medicine availability affects the workflow. The choice of condition, measures and safeguards must be made with the relevant local clinicians and public health partners.

This page presents a possible research direction. It does not assert a current laboratory test menu, pharmacy stock, specialist infectious disease service, or an active study at the medical center.