ResourceClinical Diagnostics
Addressing the roadblocks to rapid AST as the clinical standard
9 Apr 2025
Rapid antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) is redefining how clinical microbiology tackles antimicrobial resistance. But while the technology is advancing fast, adoption still varies widely across labs.
An industry-wide survey reveals the landscape of rapid AST implementation, key barriers, and what labs need to move forward.
Key takeaways:
- Innovation is a priority in clinical microbiology, with most labs actively evaluating new tools
- Ultra-rapid AST is delivering measurable benefits in sepsis management and time-to-result
- Manufacturers are driving progress, but labs need clearer pathways to adoption
- Cost, workflow integration, and evidence remain key barriers—but they’re not insurmountable
- There’s strong demand for faster, more precise, and scalable solutions
Whether you're actively evaluating options or weighing the investment, this infographic breaks down the current landscape, top challenges, and what’s needed for successful adoption.
Related products
Request Quote for All Products
QuickMIC®: Ultra-rapid antibiotic susceptibility testing
GradientechQuickMIC is an ultra-rapid AST system, providing precise MIC values directly from positive blood cultures in 2-4 hours.
Links
Tags
Clinical MicrobiologyMicrobiology is the study of microorganisms including protists, prokaryotes, fungi, and, often, viruses. Microorganisms are a useful research tool as genetic vectors and, in immunology, for antibiotic susceptibility testing, cellular biology and genetics. Microorganisms commonly grow readily in incubators with microbial culture media; this can contain chromogenic supplements to differentiate between cell lines. Estimate your culture’s density of microorganisms with colony counters, or screen and select colonies for desirable clones with automated colony pickers. Additionally, equipment is available to monitor environments for the presence of microbes and identify with microbial identification instruments. Find the best microbiology products in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)SepsisSepsis is a life-threatening response to infection causing organ dysfunction. Research focuses on early detection, biomarkers, and therapies to reduce mortality. Explore tools for sepsis diagnostics and analysis in our peer-reviewed product directory, including detection kits and biomarkers.Respiratory InfectionsRespiratory infections are caused by pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi, leading to diseases like pneumonia, tuberculosis, and COVID-19. It is important to identify respiratory infections quickly in patients to ensure appropriate treatment and care, and to prevent sepsis. Browse our peer-reviewed product directory to find the best tools for respiratory infection detection, compare products, check reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.Infectious DiseasesInfectious diseases are caused by pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Effective detection, prevention, and treatment are crucial to control outbreaks and improve public health. Diagnostic tools, vaccines, and antimicrobial treatments are essential components of managing these diseases. Research into emerging pathogens and resistance patterns continues to evolve. Browse our peer-reviewed product directory to find the best diagnostic tools, prevention solutions, and treatment options; compare products, read customer reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.Patient CareAntimicrobial Stewardship