“Pharmacies play a crucial role in our healthcare system, but this role must be complementary, and not a substitute, for specialized diagnostic facilities.” Thus Luca Marino, vice-president of Unindustria with responsibility for healthcare, speaking at the Second National Assembly of the Association of independent healthcare companies (Aisi), underway in Rome.
“Entrusting the execution of laboratory tests to pharmacies means underestimating the complexity of these operations”, observed Marino and then added: “Errors in the sampling and management of biological samples, such as throat or nasal swabs, can lead to false negatives and incorrect diagnoses, with serious consequences for the health of patients. Superficial training is not enough; in-depth preparation is needed, such as that of doctors, biologists and specialized laboratory technicians to do this job.”
“The use of Point of Care Testing (POCT) instruments in pharmacies – he continued – cannot guarantee the same accuracy as the machinery present in clinical laboratories, which are subjected to rigorous quality controls. These devices were designed for emergency situations where it is a quick result is needed, not for in-depth screening or diagnosis.” In conclusion, “I believe it is essential that at this point we make a deep reflection on our NHS, with an overall vision that takes into account all the realities involved within it, very carefully avoiding making sectoral decisions aimed at just one sector. Health of our citizens deserves the utmost commitment and attention.”
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