The Theranos Debacle: A Cautionary Tale of Healthcare Errors

A polymath’s perspective on Theranos, dissecting the promise of too much..

In a world which now understands the difference between a PCR test and lateral flow test, we find the scientific community under strict scrutiny, yet we welcome it with open arms.

Those of us who work according to quality controls and ethics, (the ideals and meticulosity which drove us to the field initially), constantly looking to improve systems and innovate, this presents further challenges.

Theranos promised to innovate and revolutionise healthcare, offering groundbreaking technology performing blood tests, from exceptionally low volumes of blood. The benefits informed the sales pitch which led to millions in investment. The thought of a virtually painless collection method alongside a full profile of tests seemed to good to be true. And as it often is said, when it appears too good, it unfortunately isn’t true. The same misfortune applies here too

Regulatory and Quality Standards are the backbone of Biomedicine. As registered scientists we not only attest to working to ensure patients are served to the best of our ability, but also to practice to the highest Quality and Ethical Standards. We are committed to innovate, problem solve and work relentlessly in the pursuit of efficiency and correctness. The impact of our actions on the lives of our patients is not lost on us.