One Year On: How BioFire Testing Is Enhancing Patient Care at Sloane Street Surgery

It has now been over a year since we introduced same-day BioFire diagnostic testing at Sloane Street Surgery, and it has quickly become a valuable part of our day-to-day practice. This technology allows us to identify infections more accurately and treat patients more efficiently, improving both outcomes and confidence in diagnosis.

What is BioFire testing?

BioFire is a rapid molecular diagnostic system that detects the genetic material of bacteria, viruses and parasites directly from patient samples. Using a nasal, throat, stool or sputum swab, the machine can identify a wide range of pathogens within a few hours — a process that would traditionally take several days using standard laboratory culture techniques.

At Sloane Street Surgery, we use BioFire Panels to investigate respiratory, gastrointestinal and pneumonia-related infections. The system can detect viruses such as influenza, RSV and COVID-19, bacteria including Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Streptococcus pneumoniae, and gastrointestinal pathogens like Giardia, E. coli and Salmonella.

How has it changed the way we practise?

Over the past year, BioFire has proved invaluable in a wide variety of cases. It has helped us provide rapid clarity, begin targeted treatment sooner and avoid unnecessary antibiotics. A few examples stand out:

James: a persistent cough

James came to see us after several weeks of coughing and fever. His BioFire test confirmed Mycoplasma pneumoniae — a bacteria not covered by standard first-line antibiotics. Within hours we were able to prescribe the correct medication, and his symptoms improved quickly.

Emma: severe diarrhoea after travel

Emma returned from holiday with severe diarrhoea and dehydration. The BioFire gastrointestinal panel identified Giardia, a parasite that can otherwise take days to diagnose. She received prompt treatment, made a full recovery and avoided an unnecessary hospital admission.

Poppy: a high fever in a child

Poppy, aged four, arrived with a high fever and a runny nose. Her BioFire respiratory test showed Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), a common viral infection in children. Knowing the cause meant we could reassure her parents that antibiotics were not needed, focusing instead on rest, fluids and supportive care.

Each of these cases demonstrates how same-day testing offers both clarity and reassurance — helping us tailor care precisely to each patient’s needs.

Names have been changed to protect patient confidentiality.

Why does rapid diagnosis matter?

Rapid and accurate diagnosis plays a vital role in patient care. It allows us to start the right treatment quickly, reduces the risk of complications and prevents unnecessary antibiotic use. Knowing whether an infection is viral or bacterial ensures antibiotics are prescribed only when appropriate, helping to combat antibiotic resistance.

What’s next for BioFire at Sloane Street Surgery?

As we reflect on the first year of BioFire testing, it’s clear that this technology has strengthened our ability to deliver timely, evidence-based care. It has become an important part of how we investigate infections and support treatment decisions day to day. I expect its role will continue to grow naturally as more patients benefit from its accuracy and speed.

If you are experiencing symptoms such as a persistent cough, fever or gastrointestinal upset, please book an appointment with one of our doctors. A BioFire test may help identify the cause quickly and guide the most effective treatment. You can book an appointment online here or call us on 0207 245 9333.