UKs first kidney disease home-testing kit to launch

A pioneering digital home-testing kit has been launched in Salford to help people with kidney conditions.
The Healthy.io’s Dip.io device is part of Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust’s Global Digital Exemplar programmen, and could be beneficial for people with diabetes who are at risk of kidney complications.
The innovative home-based kit allows people to electronically deliver accurate urine test results to their healthcare team in real time via their smartphone.
The computer vision algorithms and unique calibration method means a problem can be detected early and treatment can be administered, preventing it from becoming worse.
Currently, testing is only possible at a lab or point of care and requires a trained medical professional. It is therefore hoped the device could ease the strain of treating kidney disease on the NHS.
The Salford Royal Virtual Renal Clinic is set to open this month and will be trialled on 50 patients.
Dr Jim Ritchie, consultant kidney physician at Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, said: “This is great news for patients with kidney conditions and we’re really excited to be the first NHS organisation to be trying out this smartphone camera testing. We’re hoping this will not only make it easier for patients but, will empower them to share responsibility for their overall health.”
Katherine Ward, is UK managing director for the company that made the device, said: “Our goal is to enhance and transform the care patients receive through the use of digital technology.
“Testing your urine in the comfort of your own home will bring huge convenience to kidney patients and also has the potential to improve the experience of other groups of people, for example pregnant women or people with diabetes as well as being a cost-effective service for the NHS.”