University Medical Devices (UMD), a leader in healthcare technology innovation, has announced the launch of its first specimen collection solution, MicroWash. Developed at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, MicroWash offers a comfortable and highly sensitive nasal lavage collection method, providing a less invasive alternative to traditional nasal swabs.
In the coming months, University Medical Devices (UMD) will begin piloting its innovative MicroWash device in select healthcare sectors. This pilot phase aims to evaluate how well the device integrates into current clinical workflows and refine it before its wider release in 2025.
UMD’s founder, Dr. Nicholas Lorenzo, emphasized the importance of this development, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for higher-sensitivity sampling methods for upper respiratory infections. “As healthcare professionals, we recognized the necessity to evolve beyond the traditional nasal swab,” said Dr. Lorenzo, who serves as the company’s CEO and president. “MicroWash is our answer to that need. This launch is just the first step in improving the sampling experience for the medical community.”
MicroWash is a fast, easy-to-use nasal lavage device that healthcare professionals can use with minimal training in various clinical settings. It works by washing the nasal passages with sterile saline to collect a sample for diagnostic testing. The collected saline effluent provides a higher-sensitivity sample compared to traditional swabs, as supported by both internal and independent academic research.
Testing aversion has long been a challenge in disease management, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Lorenzo noted, “We understood the urgent need for a device that offers better sample sensitivity while prioritizing comfort and safety for both patients and providers. No one enjoys the discomfort of a nasal swab. With MicroWash, we can eliminate that discomfort and improve our ability to manage future global health crises.”
In addition to improving patient comfort, MicroWash offers several other benefits. It collects a 2 mL sample, with up to 49% increased sensitivity compared to nasal swabs. The device also has a long shelf life of three years, reduces extraction errors, and decreases the risk of clinician infection. The ease of use makes it a reliable and efficient option for healthcare providers.
UMD is setting a new standard in specimen collection with MicroWash. Those interested in learning more about the device and its market availability are encouraged to sign up for updates.
About University Medical Devices
University Medical Devices is the developer behind MicroWash, dedicated to providing innovative and reliable specimen collection systems to enhance the patient experience. The company’s leadership includes experts in neurology, emergency medicine, telehealth, urgent care, primary care, and healthcare regulation, with specialized knowledge in biocontainment and pandemic medicine. Their experience includes overseeing isolation care and testing for COVID-19 patients at the National Quarantine Unit, a key role at the beginning of the pandemic.
