Rapid Hepatitis C Virus Diagnostics: Aligning Molecular Innovation With Real-world Elimination Needs

We comment on the recent study by Reed et al. describing the development of a rapid, automated point-of-care polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay for hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA on the DASH platform. This work represents an important step forward in accelerating molecular diagnosis and supporting decentralised HCV care pathways. We discuss key translational considerations for real-world implementation, including cost, infrastructure requirements, workflow simplicity, validation in routine clinical settings, and how analytical sensitivity aligns with programmatic needs. We emphasise that continued alignment of diagnostic innovation with affordability, scalability, and operational feasibility will be central to maximising population-level impact and advancing global HCV elimination efforts.