Bangkok, Thailand – October 2024
The 2nd Asia Pacific Conference on Point of Care Testing for Infectious Diseases (POC 2025) will be held from June 19 to 21, 2025, in Bangkok, Thailand. Organized by the Rapid Point of Care Research Consortium for Infectious Diseases (RAPID) in collaboration with ASHM Health, and with Dr. Rossaphorn Kittiyawamarn and Dr. Nittaya Phanuphak serving as local convenors, the conference will build upon past successes in expanding access to rapid diagnostics for infectious diseases.
The event will bring together leading experts, including community members, healthcare professionals, and researchers from across the Asia-Pacific region. Designed to showcase the latest innovations in point-of-care testing, POC 2025 will address key issues, such as implementing new testing strategies and overcoming challenges in equitable access and healthcare integration. This collaboration aims to foster a comprehensive approach to tackling infectious diseases, improving diagnostic capabilities, and enhancing patient care across diverse healthcare settings.
Opportunities for Engagement
POC 2025 offers a range of ways for organizations and professionals to participate, including abstract submissions, scholarships, and networking opportunities.
Abstract Submissions
The conference invites abstract submissions, closing on November 17, 2024. Topics include
- Innovative strategies for early diagnosis and linkage to care (including rapid, molecular, and self-testing).
- Integrated testing for multiple diseases, including the triple-elimination of HIV, hepatitis B, and syphilis.
- Research on point-of-care testing implementation to understand best practices.
- Initiatives to reduce antibiotic overuse and improve antimicrobial resistance stewardship.
- Policy and advocacy efforts supporting health system improvements.
- Evaluation methods to measure the health impact of point-of-care testing.
- Multidisciplinary research optimizing the implementation and impact of point-of-care tests.
- Development of innovative, affordable technologies.
- Cost-effectiveness and strategies for scaling up point-of-care testing, ensuring adequate resources and access.
Further information on abstract submissions, including submission guidelines, can be found at POC Conference Abstract Submission.
Scholarships Available
Full and partial scholarships are available to support attendance, with a priority for individuals from key populations. The application deadline is also November 17, 2024. Priority groups include:
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, Māori, and Pasifika communities.
- Indigenous peoples of Asia and individuals living in remote areas.
- Men who have sex with men, trans and gender-diverse individuals.
- People who inject drugs, those engaged in sex work, and those in resource-limited settings.
- Culturally and linguistically diverse communities.
For more information on scholarship eligibility and application details, please visit POC Conference Scholarships.
Join Us in Bangkok
POC 2025 offers valuable networking and knowledge-sharing opportunities, fostering collaboration among key stakeholders. “By putting people first and embracing innovation, collaboration, and evidence-based approaches, we are confident that eliminating infectious diseases is within reach,” said convenors Dr. Rossaphorn Kittiyawamarn and Dr. Nittaya Phanuphak.
Professionals and stakeholders across the Asia-Pacific region are encouraged to save the date and join this essential discussion on the future of infectious disease diagnostics in Bangkok. The city is ready to inspire and energize attendees, empowering them to make impactful contributions to global health equity in infectious diseases.
More information