Proposal for a national diagnostics action plan for the United States

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Biosecurity

Background:

• Effective diagnostic testing is crucial for controlling infectious disease outbreaks, limiting spread, and mitigating societal impacts.
• Despite advancements in test development and deployment, the U.S. lacks a comprehensive national strategy for scaling diagnostic capabilities during health emergencies.
• Existing infrastructure and capabilities are insufficient for the rapid, large-scale response required for future epidemics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a National Diagnostics Action Plan to address the gap in U.S. preparedness for infectious disease emergencies.
• To outline urgent steps for developing, manufacturing, and deploying diagnostic tests at a national scale.
• To foster essential public-private collaboration for enhanced response capabilities.

Main Methods:

• The study proposes a strategic framework based on identified needs and challenges in national diagnostic response.
• Recommendations focus on policy, infrastructure, and collaborative mechanisms.
• Key elements include pre-event planning, sample access, and coordination bodies.

Main Results:

• The proposed plan emphasizes proactive measures and immediate actions upon detecting an event.
• It highlights the necessity of pre-established contracts for rapid procurement and manufacturing.
• Establishing a permanent public-private coordinating body is recommended for streamlined communication and cooperation.

Conclusions:

• A coordinated national approach is essential for effective diagnostic response during disease emergencies.
• Substantial collaboration between government and the private sector is required to overcome current limitations.
• Implementing the proposed action plan will enhance the U.S.'s ability to manage future infectious disease crises through timely and widespread testing.