Scotland national roll-out of MT-RNR1 ID Kit

genedrive plc (AIM: GDR), the point of care pharmacogenetic testing company, is pleased to note the recent media coverage of its Genedrive® MT-RNR1 ID Kit, which reduces the risk of deafness in newborn babies and introduced initially by NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde ("NHSGGC").

The Genedrive® MT-RNR1 ID Kit will start being used for babies requiring antibiotic treatment for infections within the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at the Royal Hospital for Children ("RHC") in Glasgow, with the Royal Alexandra Hospital and Princess Royal Maternity Hospital to follow soon after, as part of a phased rollout to all NHS Scotland Health Boards with neonatal units over the coming months.

Dr Gino Miele, CEO of genedrive plc, said: "We are proud that NHS Scotland has begun to implement our interventional rapid genetic test nationally, ensuring over time that it is available to neonates across Scotland who might otherwise be at risk of hearing loss. As outlined in the STV news article above, the potential impact on patients and family's lives is substantial and we look forward to progressing coverage to all NHS Scotland Health boards".

Scottish Health Secretary, Neil Gray, said: "This test will have a life-changing impact on newborn babies in Scotland as we roll it out across the country through our Accelerated National Innovation Adoption pathway, resulting in improved health outcomes and a better quality of life. This exceptional programme demonstrates the transformative potential of scientific and technological innovation, and our commitment to delivering the ambitions set out in our Programme for Government and the NHS Scotland Operational Improvement Plan."

Dr Helen McDevitt, Consultant Neonatologist with NHSGGC, said: "National roll out of this innovative point of care genetic test will prevent deafness in a significant number of susceptible newborn infants each year in Scotland. Patient care will be improved immeasurably by enhancing the safety of current antibiotic treatments. It's exciting that Scotland is at the forefront of developing precision medicine from birth onwards."

Ryan Coppoer, Point of Care Testing Lead in National Services Scotland, said: "This simple and gentle test gives us the ability to protect babies from avoidable harm and hearing loss right from the very start of their lives. This aims to not only safeguard their quality of life but give their families and loved one's peace of mind. By identifying those at risk within minutes of birth, we can make safer treatment choices and give every child the best chance to grow, learn and thrive without the challenges that hearing loss can bring."