Connectivity package for Quo-Lab™ and Quo-Test™ analyzers uses POCT1-A2 communication protocol for diabetic HbA1c testing.

EKF Diagnostics, the global in vitro diagnostics company, announces that it will be previewing a new point-of-care (POC) connectivity solution for its range of HbA1c analyzers at Medica 2016 in Düsseldorf from 14–17^th November. In Hall 3 / C70, EKF will be showcasing the new connectivity package for Quo-Test™ and Quo-Lab™ HbA1c analyzers, enabling secure bi-directional communication between these POC analyzers and a multitude of central data management systems. Using the industry recognized POCT1-A2 communication protocol, EKF’s connectivity solution unlocks a host of new features aimed at improving security and quality control (QC) for diabetic HbA1c testing.

The new connectivity package includes a proprietary connector interface box, cables and a software upgrade. This enables EKF’s HbA1c analyzers to automatically transmit patient data to the majority of Lab Information Management Systems (LIMS) or Hospital Information Systems (HIS). Traceability and results recall speed are improved by use of patient ID and increased demographic data (such as family name and date of birth). These can now be recorded through either selecting from a pre-approved list or via the barcode scanner and keyboard.

Also ensuring the integrity of results generated at the POC, security and QC is enhanced on Quo-Lab and Quo-Test through user ID and QC lockout functions which are included in the connectivity package. By restricting access to trained users only, the lockout functions minimize the chances of user error and adhere to security protocols in many institutions. Furthermore, unauthorized users will be prevented from accessing patient information. Multiple user-defined QC lockout options are also available to POCT coordinators in order to enforce regular testing of QC materials and ensure compliance.

“HbA1c, or glycated haemoglobin, is well recognised as a reliable measure for glycemic control and managing patients with diabetes. As HbA1c levels reflect average circulating glucose concentration over a two to three month period, this means that it can offer greater clinical information than a single glucose measurement,” said Gavin Jones, Diabetes Product Manager, EKF Diagnostics. “Our Quo-Lab and Quo-Test analyzers deliver lab-quality results for HbA1c from 4µL of blood within 4 minutes, enabling the consulting clinician to give immediate feedback to a patient. In addition to ensuring the reliability of results, our new connectivity package also allows the clinician to add commentary to any test result, further enhancing the monitoring and management of diabetes in a point-of-care setting.”

On EKF’s Stand C70, Hall 3, at Medica there will be live demonstrations of the new connectivity package for Quo-Lab and Quo-Test analyzers. In addition, other products from EKF’s in vitro diagnostics range for both point-of-care and central laboratory settings will be available to discuss and view. These will include the Hemo Control, DiaSpect Tm, Biosen C-Line and Lactate Scout+.

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