Newsy Investigates: COVID-19 Rapid Tests Struggle To Win FDA Approval

The video discusses the development of a rapid COVID-19 test by Cesar Delafuente at the University of Pennsylvania, which is affordable and can provide results via a smartphone app. Despite its potential, the test faces challenges in obtaining FDA approval due to stringent guidelines. The video compares the US approach to COVID testing with overseas methods, highlighting the focus on quality over quantity. Congresswoman Kim Schrier advocates for more at-home tests to prevent community spread. The video also covers pending approvals, market challenges, and innovations in rapid testing, emphasizing the need for FDA approval to bring these tests to market.

What is the main challenge Cesar Delafuente faces in getting his rapid COVID test to market?

• Competition from other tests

• Lack of funding

• FDA approval requirements

• Technical issues with the test

How does the FDA view home COVID tests compared to overseas regulations?

• As less important

• With a focus on quantity over quality

• With a focus on quality over quantity

• As equally important

What is the main advantage of the overseas approach to COVID testing?

• More reliable results

• Higher accuracy

• Faster results

• Lower cost and frequent testing

How many at-home rapid tests has the FDA approved compared to Germany?

• 20 in the US, 10 in Germany

• 10 in the US, 20 in Germany

• 34 in the US, 7 in Germany

• 7 in the US, 34 in Germany

What is the main reason for the FDA's cautious approach to approving home tests?

• Lack of resources

• Potential risks and benefits

• Political pressure

• Public demand

What recent step has the White House taken to increase the availability of rapid tests?

• Planning to buy a billion dollars worth of tests

• Reducing FDA approval standards

• Investing in new test technologies

• Banning imports of foreign tests

What is a significant challenge Delafuente faces even if FDA approval is granted?

• Finding a manufacturer

• Developing a new test

• Competing with existing tests

• Securing additional funding