Centre for Development and Implementation of Point-of-Care Diagnostics

The Centre for Development and Implementation of Point-of-Care Diagnostics (CPOC-Dx) at the University of Pretoria currently exists as a research group, University of Pretoria’s REASSURED diagnostics (REASSURED-d@UP). CPOC-Dx serves as a bridge between developers, implementers and users of diagnostics in resource-limited settings, with a focus on sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). We focus on conducting transdisciplinary research that rigorously adheres to the World Health Organization (WHO)'s REASSURED principles, ensuring that the diagnostics developed and deployed in resource-limited settings are not only innovative but also practical and applicable across diverse settings as well as produce desirable results. By prioritising the real-world application of research, we strive to make diagnostic tools accessible, affordable, and effective in enhancing global health outcomes, particularly in resource-limited settings and among underserved populations.

Our approach is unique in that it transcends traditional research boundaries by integrating insights from multiple disciplines to create diagnostics that are feasible and sustainable in various environments. We partnered with industry partners such as Abbott International and leading global diagnostics research institutions such as PORTENT (Point of Care Technologies for Nutrition, Infection and Cancer for Global Health) Centre at Cornell University, Department of Chemistry in Washington University, Tackling Infections to Benefit Africa (TIBA) at University of Edinburgh, NuMERI (Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure) and AfriDSAI (Africa Institute of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence) and are part of the Africa-Europe Cluster of Excellence for Multi-Morbidity (ARMORE). Through these partnerships, we work with developers to design and refine diagnostic tools, ensuring they meet the high standards of the REASSURED criteria: real time connectivity ,ease of sample collection, affordable, sensitive, specific, user-friendly, rapid, equipment-free, and deliverable to end-users.

Simultaneously, we engage with implementers and local communities to understand their needs, challenges, and contexts. This engagement is crucial for the seamless integration of diagnostic tools into everyday healthcare practices. By involving these stakeholders throughout the research and development process, we ensure that the diagnostics are not only scientifically sound but also culturally and contextually appropriate. CPOC-Dx comprehensive and collaborative approach bridges the gap between innovation and implementation. Our dedication to developing and deploying effective diagnostic tools aims to improve global health outcomes and empower communities with the resources they need to manage their health. This focus on accessibility, affordability, and practicality makes CPOC-Dx a vital contributor to the global health landscape, particularly in resource-constrained settings. Our commitment to excellence and real-world impact positions us as a leading research centre in the development and implementation of REASSURED diagnostic innovations.

Mission of CPOC-Dx

To create a platform for point-of-care diagnostics researchers, developers, implementers and policymakers to collaborate in conducting research aimed at advancing evidence-based development and implementation of point-of-care diagnostics for resource-limited settings and underserved populations.

Vision of CPOC-Dx

Producing high-quality research to guide the development and implementation of REASSURED point-of-care diagnostics in order to improve the health outcomes in resource-limited settings and among underserved populations.