Covid-19 international comparative research and rapid knowledge exchange hub on diagnostic testing systems

The proposed research asks how leading countries such as Germany and South Korea configure and use their national diagnostic testing systems for Covid-19 ('testing systems') in order to have relatively low rates of Covid-19 mortality per capita in their populations, to avoid or shorten 'lock-downs', and reduce economic impacts. We will identify the key elements of testing systems that have contributed to effective performance, including measures taken that have facilitated preparedness and resilience before the crisis, as well as those rapid innovations that have helped countries to deal with a fast evolving pandemic. We will explain how testing systems have been used, and how challenges related to testing have been overcome. The research will include the four nations of the UK and five further countries. Additionally, the role of transnational organisations such as the WHO, EU and large diagnostics companies will be studied to understand how tensions have been managed between increasing the quantity of new tests for Covid-19 and maintaining their quality. The project will establish a UK research and knowledge exchange hub to will facilitate dialogue between the international research team and policy makers so that relevant questions are rapidly addressed and lessons are disseminated to policy makers and public audiences, in the UK, and beyond. In order to support COVID-19 responses deliverables will be shared from the early stages of this 12 month project. Additionally to inform preparations for future outbreaks, we will contribute to national and international fora seeking to learn lessons from the current crisis.