The OraQuick HCV point‑of‑care test for rapid detection of hepatitis C virus antibodies

NICE has developed a medtech innovation briefing (MIB) on the OraQuick HCV point-of-care test for rapid detection of hepatitis C virus antibodies.

The OraQuick HCV is a rapid, point-of-care diagnostic test to identify anti-hepatitis C virus antibodies. It can be used with oral fluid, fingerstick blood, venous blood, plasma or serum. The OraQuick HCV is intended for use in the community, in GP practices or in mobile clinics targeted towards people at risk of hepatitis C.

Medtech innovation briefings provide a description of the medical technology, including its likely place in therapy, the costs of using the technology and a critical review of the strengths and weaknesses of the relevant published evidence.

Their purpose is to provide objective information on device and diagnostic technologies to aid local decision-making by clinicians, managers and procurement professionals. By making this information available, NICE helps to avoid the need for NHS organisations to produce similar information for local use.

Medtech innovation briefings are not NICE guidance. They differ in format, contain no judgement on the value of the technology and do not constitute a guidance recommendation.

MIBs are commissioned by NHS England and produced in support of the NHS 5 Year Forward View, specifically as one of a number of steps which will accelerate innovation in new treatments and diagnostics.