Funded by the Fred and Ann Green Legacy, the tech, called FilmArray, can diagnose causes of meningitis and encephalitis within an hour, compared to current testing which can take up to seven days.
Viral infections such as meningitis remain big killers, with a 10% chance of mortality in those affected. By making use of this device, patients will be diagnosed much sooner, leading to prompt treatment and a better chance of full recovery.
The cutting edge machine works by testing cerebrospinal fluid for common pathogens that can cause central nervous infections including viruses, bacteria and yeast, completing this investigation in just 60 minutes.
Dr Ken Agwuh, Director of Infection Prevention and Control, said: “I am delighted that, with this kind donation, we have been able to purchase this specialist equipment. By making use of FilmArray we will be able to quickly and accurately diagnose cases of meningitis and encephalitis, enabling us to offer treatment sooner which will increase the chances of a full recovery.
“I want to thank the trustees of the Fred and Ann Green Legacy for providing the Trust with the essential funds needed to provide this potentially life-saving tool. This crucial technology has been used in a number of other organisations with positive effects and we are proud to be able offer this device to the people of Doncaster, Bassetlaw and beyond.”
All funding has been provided by the Fred and Ann Green Legacy, a charitable trust fund left by the local entrepreneurs, which has invested in a number of health projects at the Trust including the recently opened Fred and Ann Green Eye Centre.
The Trust intends to pilot Film Array for one year and will review its effectiveness at the end of this 12 month period.