HMH CDI Launches Rapid Response Test
March 16, 2020
Hackensack Meridian Health, New Jersey’s largest and most comprehensive health network, is pleased to announce that the Center for Discovery and Innovation (CDI) has created a test to dramatically reduce the time it takes for diagnosing COVID-19. This is a major advance that will benefit patients, create a more effective triage system in our hospitals and potentially better control the spread of disease.
“Our mission at Hackensack Meridian Health is to transform health care and this new rapid test does precisely that,” said Robert C. Garrett, FACHE, chief executive officer of Hackensack Meridian Health. “We are all proud to provide this game-changing diagnostic tool which will ultimately benefit communities far beyond New Jersey. I applaud the efforts of the CDI in achieving this breakthrough.’’
The new diagnostic tool will reduce the current process of testing for COVID-19 from days to hours. The test permits the network to quarantine and treat patients suspected of having COVID-19 more rapidly or in the case of a negative result, spare the patient unnecessary time in the hospital. The Center for Discovery and Innovation received preliminary Emergency Use Authorization from the Food and Drug Administration to start using the test today. Additionally, the state Department of Health has also approved the test.