U.S. patent application number 17/680910 was filed with the patent office on 2022-07-14 for health testing and diagnostics platform.
The applicant listed for this patent is EMED LABS, LLC. Invention is credited to Colman Thomas Bryant, Adam Charles Carlson, Chris Ensey, Michael W. Ferro, JR., Marco Magistri, Sam Miller, Zachary Carl Nienstedt.
Application Number | 20220223280 17/680910 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | |
Filed Date | 2022-07-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220223280 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ferro, JR.; Michael W. ; et
al. |
July 14, 2022 |
HEALTH TESTING AND DIAGNOSTICS PLATFORM
Abstract
Systems and methods for providing a universal platform for
at-home health testing and diagnostics are provided herein. In
particular, a health testing and diagnostic platform is provided to
connect medical providers with patients and to generate a unique,
private testing environment. In some embodiments, the testing
environment may facilitate administration of a medical test to a
patient with the guidance of a proctor. In some embodiments, the
patient may be provided with step-by-step instructions for test
administration by the proctor within a testing environment. The
platform may display unique, dynamic testing interfaces to the
patient and proctor to ensure proper testing protocols and accurate
test result verification.
Inventors: |
Ferro, JR.; Michael W.;
(Palm Beach, FL) ; Miller; Sam; (Hollywood,
FL) ; Magistri; Marco; (Miami, FL) ; Bryant;
Colman Thomas; (Fort Lauderdale, FL) ; Carlson; Adam
Charles; (Miami, FL) ; Nienstedt; Zachary Carl;
(Wilton Manors, FL) ; Ensey; Chris; (Fort
Lauderdale, FL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
EMED LABS, LLC |
Miami |
FL |
US |
|
|
Appl. No.: |
17/680910 |
Filed: |
February 25, 2022 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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17452746 |
Oct 28, 2021 |
11289196 |
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17680910 |
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17452726 |
Oct 28, 2021 |
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17452746 |
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63136575 |
Jan 12, 2021 |
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63156012 |
Mar 3, 2021 |
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63179864 |
Apr 26, 2021 |
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International
Class: |
G16H 40/67 20060101
G16H040/67; G16H 50/20 20060101 G16H050/20; G09B 19/00 20060101
G09B019/00; H04L 65/403 20060101 H04L065/403; H04N 7/15 20060101
H04N007/15; G16H 10/40 20060101 G16H010/40; G06F 3/0482 20060101
G06F003/0482; H04L 65/1069 20060101 H04L065/1069; G16H 40/20
20060101 G16H040/20; A61B 5/00 20060101 A61B005/00; G06Q 50/20
20060101 G06Q050/20; G16H 80/00 20060101 G16H080/00; G06T 7/70
20060101 G06T007/70; G06V 20/40 20060101 G06V020/40 |
Claims
1-20. (canceled)
21. A computer-implemented system for a proctored examination
platform, the computer-implemented system comprising: an electronic
storage medium comprising computer-executable instructions; one or
more processors in electronic communication with the electronic
storage medium and configured to execute the computer-executable
instructions to: receive first image data from a first imaging
device of a user device, the first imaging device comprising a
forward facing camera of the user device, and the first imaging
data comprising at least an image of a user; receive second image
data from a second imaging device of the user, the second imaging
device comprising a rearward facing camera of the user device, and
the second imaging data comprising an image of a test kit for a
medical diagnostic test; during a medical diagnostic testing
procedure, automatically cause one of the first image data and the
second image data to be displayed on a display of the user device,
wherein the one of the first image data and the second image data
is selected based on a current step of the medical diagnostic
testing procedure; generate augmented reality (AR) content data
associated with the current step of the medical diagnostic test,
wherein the AR content data is configured to facilitate performance
of the current step; and cause the AR content data to be overlaid
onto the displayed one of the first image data and the second image
data.
22. The computer-implemented system of claim 21, wherein the one or
more processors further cause the one of the first image data and
the second image data to be displayed on a display of a proctor
device, whereby a proctor monitors performance of the current
step.
23. The computer-implemented system of claim 22, wherein the AR
content data is displayed to on the display of the proctor
device.
24. The computer-implemented system of claim 21, wherein the one or
more processors further cause both of the first image data and the
second image data to be displayed on a display of a proctor device,
whereby a proctor monitors performance of the current step.
25. The computer-implemented system of claim 24, wherein the AR
content data is displayed to on the display of the proctor
device.
26. The computer-implemented system of claim 21, wherein the one or
more processors further identify at least one feature within the
first image data or the second image data, the at least one feature
comprising at least one of an anatomical feature of the user or at
least one testing feature of at least one testing material of the
test kit.
27. The computer-implemented system of claim 26, wherein the AR
content data is associated with the at least one feature.
28. The computer-implemented system of claim 27, wherein the AR
content data is overlaid onto the one of the first image data and
the second image data at a position that corresponds with the at
least one feature.
29. The computer-implemented system of claim 27, wherein the at
least one feature comprises one of: a nostril of the user, a test
swab, and a portion of a testing material to which a testing
solution is to be introduced by the user.
30. A computer-implemented method for a proctored examination
platform, the computer-implemented method comprising: receiving, by
a computer system, first image data from a first imaging device of
a user device, the first imaging device comprising a forward facing
camera of the user device, and the first imaging data comprising at
least an image of a user; receiving second image data from a second
imaging device of the user, the second imaging device comprising a
rearward facing camera of the user device, and the second imaging
data comprising an image of a test kit for a medical diagnostic
test; during a medical diagnostic testing procedure, automatically
causing one of the first image data and the second image data to be
displayed on a display of the user device, wherein the one of the
first image data and the second image data is selected based on a
current step of the medical diagnostic testing procedure;
generating augmented reality (AR) content data associated with the
current step of the medical diagnostic test, wherein the AR content
data is configured to facilitate performance of the current step;
and causing the AR content data to be overlaid onto the displayed
one of the first image data and the second image data.
31. The computer-implemented method of claim 30, further comprising
causing the one of the first image data and the second image data
to be displayed on a display of a proctor device, whereby a proctor
monitors performance of the current step.
32. The computer-implemented method of claim 31, wherein the AR
content data is displayed to on the display of the proctor
device.
33. The computer-implemented method of claim 30, further comprising
causing both of the first image data and the second image data to
be displayed on a display of a proctor device, whereby a proctor
monitors performance of the current step.
34. The computer-implemented method of claim 33, wherein the AR
content data is displayed to on the display of the proctor
device.
35. The computer-implemented method of claim 30, further comprising
identifying at least one feature within the first image data or the
second image data, the at least one feature comprising at least one
of an anatomical feature of the user or at least one testing
feature of at least one testing material of the test kit.
36. The computer-implemented method of claim 35, wherein the AR
content data is associated with the at least one feature.
37. The computer-implemented method of claim 36, wherein the AR
content data is overlaid onto the one of the first image data and
the second image data at a position that corresponds with the at
least one feature.
38. The computer-implemented method of claim 37, wherein the at
least one feature comprises one of: a nostril of the user, a test
swab, and a portion of a testing material to which a testing
solution is to be introduced by the user.
Description
INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE TO ANY PRIORITY APPLICATIONS
[0001] Any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic
priority claim is identified in the Application Data Sheet as filed
with the present application are hereby incorporated by reference
under 37 CFR 1.57. This application is a continuation of U.S.
application Ser. No. 17/452,746, entitled "HEALTH TESTING AND
DIAGNOSTICS PLATFORM," filed Oct. 28, 2021, which is a continuation
of U.S. application Ser. No. 17/452,726, entitled "HEALTH TESTING
AND DIAGNOSTICS PLATFORM," filed Oct. 28, 2021, which claims the
benefit under 35 U.S.C. 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application No.
63/136,575, entitled "HEALTH TESTING AND DIAGNOSTICS PLATFORM,"
filed Jan. 12, 2021, to U.S. Provisional Application No.
63/156,012, entitled "HEALTH TESTING AND DIAGNOSTICS PLATFORM,"
filed Mar. 3, 2021, and to U.S. Provisional Application 63/179,864,
entitled "HEALTH TESTING AND DIAGNOSTICS PLATFORM," filed Apr. 26,
2021, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.
BACKGROUND
Field
[0002] Some embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to
systems and methods for conducting remote health testing and
diagnostics.
Description
[0003] Use of telehealth to deliver health care services has grown
consistently over the last several decades, and has exploded in
usage during the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) Public Health
Emergency (PHE). Telehealth is the distribution of health-related
services and information via electronic information and
telecommunication technologies. Telehealth allows long-distance
patient and health provider contact, care, advice, reminders,
education, intervention, monitoring, and remote admissions. In
situations such as the COVID-19 PHE, when many medical and hospital
resources are devoted to treating the sick, patients are more
reluctant to travel to their health provider in-person, and when
access to care is restricted, telehealth provides an invaluable
resource.
[0004] During the COVID-19 pandemic, testing for coronavirus
disease (COVID-19) was extremely limited in various places
throughout the world, including the United States. Tracing infected
individuals was and continues to be an important step in preventing
new cases of infectious diseases. In response, the United States
Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorized various at-home
COVID-19 tests.
[0005] At-home testing solves some of the problems with in-person
testing. For example, health insurance may not be required, travel
to a testing site is avoided, and tests can be completed at a
patient's convenience. However, at-home testing introduces various
additional logistical and technical issues, such as guaranteeing
timely test delivery to a patient's home, providing test delivery
from a patient to an appropriate lab, ensuring test verification
and integrity, providing test result reporting to appropriate
authorities and medical providers, and connecting patients with
medical providers, who are needed to provide guidance and/or
oversight of the testing procedures remotely. These issues are not
unique to COVID-19 and will need to be addressed in relation to
remote health diagnostic testing generally. Therefore, a novel
health and diagnostic platform, which solves the issues associated
with at-home health testing, is needed.
SUMMARY
[0006] For purposes of this summary, certain aspects, advantages,
and novel features of the invention are described herein. It is to
be understood that not all such advantages necessarily may be
achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment of the
invention. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will
recognize that the invention may be embodied or carried out in a
manner that achieves one advantage or group of advantages as taught
herein without necessarily achieving other advantages as may be
taught or suggested herein.
[0007] Health testing and diagnostics platforms are provided herein
that can facilitate proctored at-home testing. Users performing at
home testing may be guided or assisted by proctors that are
available over a communication network. The platform can be
optimized such that proctors can supervise the at-home tests of a
plurality of users. In some embodiments, users that have gained
experience and proficiency with the platform and the at-home tests
may be eligible for expedited or express proctoring sessions. Such
platforms can, for example, greatly increase the availability of
testing, and reduce the spread of infectious diseases, and increase
the efficiency of proctors in terms of increasing the number of
patients that a proctor can simultaneously monitor.
[0008] In a first aspect, a computer-implemented system for a
proctored examination platform for a medical diagnostic test is
described. The computer-implemented system comprises an electronic
storage comprising computer-executable instructions and one or more
processors in electronic communication with the electronic storage
medium and configured to execute the computer-executable
instructions in order to: receive, by the computing system from a
user device of a user in communication with the computing system
over an electronic network, a request for a proctored examination
session for a medical diagnostic test; based on the request,
establish, by the computing system, the proctored examination
session between the user device of the user and a proctor device of
a proctor over the electronic network; receive, by the computing
system, image data from at least one imaging device of the user
device, the image data comprising at least a view of the user or at
least one testing material of a test kit for the medical diagnostic
test; identify, by the computing system, at least one feature
within the image data received from the imaging device of the user
device, the at least one feature comprising at least one of an
anatomical feature of the user or at least one testing feature of
the at least one testing material of the test kit; generate, by the
computing system, user display data for display to the user on a
user graphical user interface on a display of the user device, the
user display data comprising at least: the image data received from
the at least one imaging device of the user device, and at least
one computer-generated graphic associated with the identified at
least one feature within the image data, wherein the at least one
computer-generated graphic is overlaid onto the image data at a
position associated with at least one identified feature, and the
at least one computer-generated graphic is configured to facilitate
at least one step of the medical diagnostic test; generate, by the
computing system, proctor display data for display to the proctor
on a proctor graphical user interface on a display of the proctor
device, the proctor display data comprising at least the image data
received from the imaging device of the user device and information
associated with the medical diagnostic test; transmit, from the
computing system over the electronic network, the user display data
to the user device for display on the user graphical user interface
on the display of the user device; and transmit, from the computing
system, the proctor display data to the proctor device for display
on the proctor graphical user interface on the display of the
proctor device; whereby the user performs the at least one step of
the medical diagnostic test based on the user display data and the
proctor monitors performance of the at least one step of the
medical diagnostic test based on the proctor display data.
[0009] The system can include one or more of the following features
in any combination: (a) wherein the proctor display data further
comprises the at least one computer-generated graphic associated
with the identified at least one feature within the image data,
wherein the at least one computer-generated graphic is overlaid
onto the image data at a position associated with at least one
identified feature, and the at least one computer-generated graphic
configured to facilitate at least one step of the medical
diagnostic test; (b) wherein identifying the at least one feature
within the image data received from the imaging device of the user
device comprises analyzing, by the computing system, the image data
using a computer vision algorithm configured to detect the at least
one feature within the image data; (c) wherein transmitting the
user display data to the user device and transmitting the proctor
display data to the proctor device occur substantially
simultaneously such that the user and the proctor view the image
data in a substantially synchronized state; (d) wherein the at
least one feature within the image data comprises a nostril of the
user; (e) wherein the at least one feature within the image data
comprises a test swab; (f) wherein the at least one feature within
the image data comprises a portion of a testing material to which a
testing solution is to be introduced by the user; (g) wherein the
information associated with the medical diagnostic test of the
proctor display data comprises an indication of a current testing
step of the medical diagnostic test; (h) wherein the information
associated with the medical diagnostic test of the proctor display
data comprises a testing instruction to be read to the user by the
proctor; (i) wherein the proctored testing session comprises an
electronic video conference session between the user device and
proctor device; (j) wherein the user comprises a first user, the
image data comprises first image data, and the computer-implemented
system is further configured to receive, by the computing system
from a second user device of a second user in communication with
the computing system over the electronic network, a second request
for a second proctored examination session for a second medical
diagnostic test; based on the second request for the second
proctored examination session for the second medical diagnostic
test, establish the second proctored examination session between
the second user device of the second user and the proctor device of
the proctor over the electronic network; receive, at the computing
system, second image data from at least one second imaging device
of the second user device, the second image data comprising at
least a second view of the second user or at least one second
testing material of a second test kit of the second medical
diagnostic test; identify, by the computing system, at least one
second feature within the second image data received from the
second imaging device of the second user device, the at least one
second feature comprising at least one of an anatomical feature of
the second user or at least one testing feature of the at least one
second testing material of the second test kit; generate, by the
computing system, second user display data for display to the
second user on a second user graphical user interface on a second
display of the second user device, the second user display data
comprising at least: the second image data received from the at
least one second imaging device of the second user device, and at
least one second computer-generated graphic associated with the
identified at least one second feature within the second image
data, wherein the at least one second computer-generated graphic is
overlaid onto the second image data at a position associated with
at least one identified second feature, and the at least one second
computer-generated graphic is configured to facilitate at least one
step of the second medical diagnostic test; generate, by the
computing system, second proctor display data for display to the
proctor on the proctor graphical user interface on the display of
the proctor device, the second proctor display data comprising at
least the second image data received from the imaging device of the
second user device and second information associated with the
second medical diagnostic test; transmit, from the computing system
over the electronic network, the second user display data to the
second user device for display on the second user graphical user
interface on the display of the second user device; and transmit,
from the computing system, the second proctor display data to the
proctor device for display on the proctor graphical user interface
on the display of the proctor device; whereby the second user
performs the at least one step of the medical diagnostic test aided
by the second user display data and the proctor monitors
performance of the at least one step of the second medical
diagnostic test aided by the second proctor display data; (k)
wherein the proctor graphical user interface is configured to
display the first proctor display data and the second proctor
display data at the same time such that the proctor monitors the
first user and the second user at the same time; and/or other
features as described throughout this application.
[0010] In another aspect, a computer-implemented system for a
multi-session proctored examination platform for a medical
diagnostic test is described. The computer-implemented system
comprises: an electronic storage medium of a computing system, the
electronic storage medium comprising computer-executable
instructions; one or more processors of the computing system, the
one or more processors in electronic communication with the
electronic storage medium, the one or more processors in electronic
communication through an electronic network with a first user
computing device and a second user computing device, the one or
more processors configured to execute the computer-executable
instructions stored in the electronic storage medium for
implementing the multi-session proctored examination platform for
the medical diagnostic test by: receiving, by the computing system,
through the electronic network a first user request from a first
user for a proctored examination at a first time, the first user
request received from the first user computing device; generating,
by the computing system, display data for displaying a graphical
user interface (GUI) on a display of a proctor device, the display
data configured to display to a proctor a first set of two or more
phases of the medical diagnostic test and a first phase indicator
showing a current phase of the first user in the two or more phases
of the medical diagnostic test; transmitting, by the computing
system, through the electronic network the display data to the
proctor device; receiving, by the computing system, through the
electronic network a first video conference connection request from
the proctor device; establishing, by the computing system, a first
electronic video conference session between the proctor device and
the first user computing device; receiving, by the computing
system, through the electronic network a second user request from a
second user for a proctored examination at a second time, the
second user request received from the second user computing device,
wherein the second time is later in time than the first time;
generating, by the computing system, supplemental display data for
displaying the graphical user interface (GUI) on the display of the
proctor device, the supplemental display data configured to
concurrently display: the first set of two or more phases of the
medical diagnostic test and a second phase indicator showing the
current phase of the first user in the first set of two or more
phases of the medical diagnostic test, and a second set of two or
more phases of the medical diagnostic test and a third phase
indicator showing the current phase of the second user in the
second set of two or more phases of the medical diagnostic test,
wherein the second and third phase indicators are at different
phases in the two or more phases of the medical diagnostic test;
transmitting, by the computing system, through the electronic
network the supplemental display data to the proctor device;
receiving, by the computing system, through the electronic network
a first video conference connection termination request and a
second video conference connection request from the proctor device;
terminating, by the computing system, the first electronic video
conference session between the proctor device and the first user
computing device; transmitting, by the computing system, through
the electronic network to the first user computing device content
data configured to be displayed on the first user computing device;
and establishing, by the computing system, a second electronic
video conference session between the proctor device and the second
user computing device.
[0011] The system may include one or more of the following features
in any combination: (a) wherein the content data comprises
augmented reality content data for showing the first user how to
administer the medical diagnostic test; (b) wherein the content
data comprises virtual reality content data for showing the first
user how to administer the medical diagnostic test; (c) the proctor
can simultaneously conduct the second video conference session with
the second user while monitoring the first user that is viewing the
content data; (d) wherein the monitoring the first user that is
viewing the content data comprises transmitting, by the computer
system, through the electronic network to the proctor device video
data of the first user to ensure that the first user is watching
the content data; (e) analyzing, by the computing system, using a
computer vision algorithm the video data to detect a medical
diagnostic test device and to determine if the medical diagnostic
test device has moved, and transmitting, by the computing system,
through the electronic network, based on determining that the
medical diagnostic test device has moved, an alert notification to
the proctor device to notify the proctor that the medical
diagnostic test device has moved; (f) receiving, by the computing
system, through the electronic network a mute request from the
proctor device to mute the proctor for the second electronic video
conference session, and an unmute request from the proctor device
to unmute the proctor associated with the video data being
transmitted to the first user; (g) wherein the third phase
indicator is in an earlier phase relative to the second phase
indicator; (h) the computing system comprises one or more computing
systems; (i) wherein the supplemental display data configured to
concurrently display the first set of two or more phases of the
medical diagnostic test and the second set of two or more phases of
the medical diagnostic test enables the proctor to monitor multiple
medical diagnostic test sessions for multiple users; and/or other
features as described throughout this application.
[0012] In another aspect, a computer-implemented method for a
multi-session proctored examination platform for one or more
medical diagnostic tests, the computer-implemented is described.
The method comprises: receiving, by the computing system, through
an electronic network a first user request from a first user for a
proctored examination at a first time, the first user request
received from a first user computing device; generating, by the
computing system, display data for displaying a graphical user
interface (GUI) on a display of a proctor device, the display data
configured to display to a proctor a first set of two or more
phases of a first medical diagnostic test and a first phase
indicator showing a current phase of the first user in the two or
more phases of the first medical diagnostic test; transmitting, by
the computing system, through the electronic network the display
data to the proctor device; receiving, by the computing system,
through the electronic network a first video conference connection
request from the proctor device; establishing, by the computing
system, a first electronic video conference session between the
proctor device and the first user computing device; receiving, by
the computing system, through the electronic network a second user
request from a second user for a proctored examination at a second
time, the second user request received from a second user computing
device, wherein the second time is later in time than the first
time; generating, by the computing system, supplemental display
data for displaying the graphical user interface (GUI) on the
display of the proctor device, the supplemental display data
configured to concurrently display: the first set of two or more
phases of the first medical diagnostic test and a second phase
indicator showing the current phase of the first user in the first
set of two or more phases of the first medical diagnostic test, and
a second set of two or more phases of a second medical diagnostic
test and a third phase indicator showing the current phase of the
second user in the second set of two or more phases of the second
medical diagnostic test, wherein the second and third phase
indicators are at different phases in the two or more phases of the
first and second medical diagnostic tests; transmitting, by the
computing system, through the electronic network the supplemental
display data to the proctor device; receiving, by the computing
system, through the electronic network a second video conference
connection request from the proctor device; terminating, by the
computing system, a video feed from the proctor device in the first
electronic video conference session between the proctor device and
the first user computing device; and establishing, by the computing
system, a second electronic video conference session between the
proctor device and the second user computing device, wherein the
computing system comprises one or more computer processors and an
electronic memory.
[0013] The system may include one or more of the following features
in any combination: (a) transmitting, by the computing system,
through the electronic network to the first user computing device a
content data comprising augmented reality content data for showing
the first user how to administer the first medical diagnostic test;
(b) transmitting, by the computing system, through the electronic
network to the first user computing device a content data comprises
virtual reality content data for showing the first user how to
administer the first medical diagnostic test; (c) wherein the
proctor can simultaneously conduct the second video conference
session with the second user while monitoring the first user
through the first electronic video conference session; (d) wherein
the monitoring the first user comprises transmitting, by the
computer system, through the electronic network to the proctor
device video data of the first user to ensure that the first user
is present during the first medical diagnostic test; (e) analyzing,
by the computing system, using a computer vision algorithm the
video data to detect a medical diagnostic test device and to
determine if the medical diagnostic test device has moved, and
transmitting, by the computing system, through the electronic
network, based on determining that the medical diagnostic test
device has moved, an alert notification to the proctor device to
notify the proctor that the medical diagnostic test device has
moved; (f) receiving, by the computing system, through the
electronic network a mute request from the proctor device to mute
the proctor for the second electronic video conference session, and
an unmute request from the proctor device to unmute the proctor for
the first electronic video conference session; (g) wherein the
third phase indicator is in an earlier phase relative to the second
phase indicator; (h) wherein the computing system comprises one or
more computing systems; (i) wherein the supplemental display data
configured to concurrently display the first set of two or more
phases of the first medical diagnostic test and the second set of
two or more phases of the second medical diagnostic test enables
the proctor to monitor multiple medical diagnostic test sessions
for multiple users; and/or other features as described throughout
this application.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] The drawings are provided to illustrate example embodiments
and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. A better
understanding of the systems and methods described herein will be
appreciated upon reference to the following description in
conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0015] FIG. 1 illustrates an example flowchart of an at-home
testing protocol according to some embodiments described
herein.
[0016] FIG. 2 illustrates an example flowchart of a method for
registering a user and ordering a diagnostic test for an at
home-testing protocol according to some embodiments described
herein.
[0017] FIG. 3 illustrates an example flowchart of an on-demand
testing protocol with a proctor according to some embodiments
described herein.
[0018] FIG. 4 illustrates an example flowchart of a method of
reporting testing results according to some embodiments described
herein.
[0019] FIG. 5 illustrates an example diagram of a health card
according to some embodiments described herein.
[0020] FIG. 6 illustrates an example flowchart for a proctor
certification and testing protocol according to some embodiments
described herein.
[0021] FIG. 7 illustrates an example flowchart for providing urgent
care to a patient via a health testing and diagnostic platform
according to some embodiments described herein.
[0022] FIG. 8 illustrates an example pre-testing confirmation
interface according to some embodiments described herein.
[0023] FIG. 9 illustrates an example pre-testing virtual waiting
room according to some embodiments described herein.
[0024] FIG. 10 illustrates an example unique code submission
interface according to some embodiments described herein.
[0025] FIG. 11 illustrates an example patient testing interface
according to some embodiments described herein.
[0026] FIG. 12 illustrates another example patient testing
interface according to some embodiments described herein.
[0027] FIG. 13 illustrates an example test initiation interface
according to some embodiments described herein.
[0028] FIG. 14 illustrates an example pre-testing interface
according to some embodiments described herein.
[0029] FIG. 15A illustrates an example testing interface according
to some embodiments described herein.
[0030] FIG. 15B illustrates another example testing interface
according to some embodiments described herein.
[0031] FIG. 16 illustrates an example test analysis and
interpretation interface according to some embodiments described
herein.
[0032] FIG. 17 illustrates another example test analysis and
interpretation interface according to some embodiments described
herein.
[0033] FIG. 18 illustrates an example another example testing
interface according to some embodiments described herein.
[0034] FIG. 19 illustrates an example testing summary interface
according to some embodiments described herein.
[0035] FIG. 20 illustrates an example test distribution interface
according to some embodiments described herein.
[0036] FIG. 21 illustrates an example multi-session management
interface according to some embodiments described herein.
[0037] FIG. 22 illustrates an example testing dashboard interface
according to some embodiments described herein.
[0038] FIG. 23 illustrates an example multi-session testing
interface according to some embodiments described herein.
[0039] FIG. 24 illustrates another example multi-session testing
interface according to some embodiments described herein.
[0040] FIG. 25A illustrates another example multi-session testing
interface according to some embodiments described herein.
[0041] FIG. 25B illustrates another example multi-session testing
interface according to some embodiments described herein.
[0042] FIG. 25C illustrates another example multi-session testing
interface according to some embodiments described herein.
[0043] FIG. 26 illustrates an example flowchart for providing
standard testing sessions and/or express testing sessions according
to some embodiments described herein.
[0044] FIG. 27 illustrates an example flowchart for user-proctor
matching and assignment according to some embodiments described
herein.
[0045] FIG. 28 illustrates an example of a swab that includes
markings that can be used by a proctor or an automated system to
ensure that testing procedures are followed.
[0046] FIG. 29 illustrates an example flowchart for providing test
continuity in the event of network connection problems according to
some embodiments described herein.
[0047] FIG. 30A illustrates a user taking a remote health or
diagnostic test using a test kit and a user device, such as a
mobile phone, according to some embodiments as described
herein.
[0048] FIG. 30B illustrates a user scanning a QR code included on a
test kit using a user device, such as a mobile phone, according to
some embodiments as described herein.
[0049] FIG. 30C illustrates an example of augmented reality (AR)
based guidance that can be displayed on a user device, such as a
mobile phone, wherein AR is used to illustrate a location on a test
card to which drops should be applied as part of a remote health
testing process, according to some embodiments as described
herein.
[0050] FIG. 30D illustrates another example of augmented reality
(AR) based guidance that can be displayed on a user device, such as
a mobile phone, wherein AR is used to illustrate a nose swab
procedure as part of a remote health testing process, according to
some embodiments as described herein.
[0051] FIG. 30E illustrates another example of augmented reality
(AR) based guidance that can be displayed on a user device, such as
a mobile phone, wherein AR is used to illustrate further steps in a
nose swab procedure as part of a remote health testing process,
according to some embodiments as described herein.
[0052] FIG. 31 illustrates an example flowchart for training an
artificial intelligence (AI) or machine learning (ML) system to
interpret test results according to some embodiments as described
herein.
[0053] FIG. 32 is a block diagram illustrating an example
embodiment of a computer system configured to run software for
implementing one or more embodiments of the health testing and
diagnostics systems, methods, and devices disclosed herein.
[0054] FIG. 33 illustrates another example embodiment of a computer
system configured to run software for implementing one or more
embodiments of the health testing and diagnostics systems, methods,
and devices disclosed herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0055] Although certain preferred embodiments and examples are
disclosed below, inventive subject matter extends beyond the
specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments
and/or uses and to modifications and equivalents thereof. Thus, the
scope of the claims appended hereto is not limited by any of the
particular embodiments described below. For example, in any method
or process disclosed herein, the acts or operations of the method
or process may be performed in any suitable sequence and are not
necessarily limited to any particular disclosed sequence. Various
operations may be described as multiple discrete operations in
turn, in a manner that may be helpful in understanding certain
embodiments; however, the order of description should not be
construed to imply that these operations are order dependent.
Additionally, the structures, systems, and/or devices described
herein may be embodied as integrated components or as separate
components. For purposes of comparing various embodiments, certain
aspects and advantages of these embodiments are described. Not
necessarily all such aspects or advantages are achieved by any
particular embodiment. Thus, for example, various embodiments may
be carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage
or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily
achieving other aspects or advantages as may also be taught or
suggested herein.
[0056] Certain exemplary embodiments will now be described to
provide an overall understanding of the principles of the
structure, function, manufacture, and use of the devices and
methods disclosed herein. One or more examples of these embodiments
are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the
art will understand that the devices and methods specifically
described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are
non-limiting exemplary embodiments and that the scope of the
present invention is defined solely by the claims. The features
illustrated or described in connection with one exemplary
embodiment may be combined with the features of other embodiments.
Such modifications and variations are intended to be included
within the scope of the present technology.
[0057] Some embodiments herein are directed to a health testing and
diagnostics platform for facilitating remote health testing via
remote connection of patients and medical providers. At-home
medical testing provides various benefits over in-person visits to
medical professionals. For example, at-home medical testing
provides both safety and convenience to patients and medical
providers. In-person visits by individuals with infectious diseases
endangers both medical professionals, as well as anyone who
encounters the individuals on their way to the in-person visit.
At-home testing does not involve personal contact between the
patient and any other individuals who may otherwise be at risk.
Furthermore, at-home testing is simply more convenient, as neither
medical providers nor patients need to leave the safety or comfort
of their home in order to administer a test using remote testing
platforms.
[0058] Additionally, because of advancements in medical and
logistics technology, especially as described herein, at-home
testing can now be extremely fast. In some cases, diagnostic tests
can be administered and read within seconds. Other tests may
require a cure time before being read or may require delivery to a
laboratory to receive results, but results can still be received
within days in most cases.
[0059] Applications for at-home medical testing are abundant. For
example, at-home testing can be used by travelers in any location
to ensure that the traveler is healthy before and/or after arriving
at a destination, without having to locate medical care in an
unfamiliar locale. Furthermore, at-home testing may prevent the
spread of infectious diseases by providing travelers knowledge of
when to quarantine or avoid traveling altogether, and to avoid
bringing home an infectious disease. At-home testing may also be
useful for sensitive individuals such as the elderly and children.
At-home testing may provide a better experience for such sensitive
individuals, especially in cases in which the testing procedure is
uncomfortable or invasive. At-home testing can mean that the test
is done in a safe, comfortable, and familiar environment, so
sensitive individuals may feel less stressed and worried during
their test, allowing testing to proceed more smoothly. In some
instances, at-home testing can be performed in a user's home,
although this need not be the case in all instances. For example,
as used herein, at-home testing can refer to testing performed in
other locations outside the home, such as in hotel rooms, airports,
or other remote locations where access to an in-person healthcare
provider is not available or desirable. Another consideration for
at-home testing is privacy. At-home testing can be private and
discreet, which is ideal for high-profile individuals or sensitive
individuals who want to get tested without leaving their homes.
Also, accessibility considerations favor at-home testing. At-home
testing is ideal for anyone who has transportation issues or
mobility/accessibility considerations.
[0060] Considering the advantages of at-home testing, systems and
methods for providing a universal platform for at-home health
testing and diagnostics are provided herein. In particular, a
health testing and diagnostic platform is provided to connect
medical providers (such as remotely located medical providers) with
patients and to generate a unique, private testing environment. In
some embodiments, the testing environment may facilitate
administration of a medical test to a patient with the guidance of
a proctor. In some embodiments, the proctor may comprise
uncertified personnel, certified medical personnel, and/or a
proctor for monitoring an algorithm such as computer software,
which may administer a medical test. In some embodiments, the
computer software is not administering the medical test but rather
is monitoring the medical test for abnormalities or deviations or
inconsistencies in the administration or performance or procedure
of the medical test that is being administered by the uncertified
personnel and/or certified medical personnel and/or medical
personnel and/or the like. In some embodiments, the patient may be
provided with step-by-step instructions for test administration by
the proctor within a testing environment. The platform may display
unique, dynamic testing interfaces to the patient and proctor to
ensure proper testing protocols and/or accurate test result
verification.
[0061] In some embodiments, the platform may provide mechanisms for
user registration and medical test ordering and fulfillment. In
some embodiments, the platform may be connected to one or more
pharmacies or third-party providers that may approve and fulfill
test kit orders. In some embodiments, the platform may provide a
testing environment comprising a private communication channel
(such as over the internet) between a proctor and a patient. In
some embodiments, the testing environment may comprise one or more
unique user interfaces that may facilitate seamless testing,
submission and verification. In some embodiments, the platform may
provide for automatic transmission of verified test results to
users, relevant authorities, and third parties. In some
embodiments, the platform may generate a unique health card or
passport, which may provide an easily accessible and understandable
testing summary for a patient and/or third parties.
[0062] In some embodiments, the platform may be configured to
register, train, and certify medical providers to proctor
diagnostic tests using the platform. In some embodiments, proctors
may be enabled to initiate testing sessions via a virtual waiting
room and interpret test results using tools provided by the one or
more unique user interfaces of the platform. In some embodiments,
proctors may be enabled to manage more than one test session
concurrently via unique multi-session user interfaces generated by
the platform, which assist with management and administration of
multiple concurrent test sessions.
[0063] In some embodiments, the platform may also be configured to
provide urgent care to patients in need by collecting symptom and
medical data from patients and providing such data to relevant
medical professionals and pharmacies. In some embodiments, the
platform may facilitate diagnosis of a patient by a third-party
medical provider and fulfillment of a drug prescription by a
third-party pharmacy, without any of the parties having direct
(e.g., physical or in person) contact.
[0064] FIG. 1 illustrates an example flowchart of an at-home
testing protocol according to some embodiments described herein. In
some embodiments, a patient may access the testing platform or a
third-party site or application in connection with the testing
platform. In some embodiments, upon indicating interest in a
medical test, a pre-qualification survey, questionnaire, or online
consultation may be transmitted or initiated at 102, in order to
assess patient disease risk, eligibility for an at-home test, or
other relevant factors, such as travel history, future travel
plans, etc. In some embodiments, the user may receive the survey
via display on a user device at 104. The user device may comprise,
for example, a personal computer, a cellular phone, a smartphone, a
laptop, a tablet computer, an e-reader device, an audio player, or
another device capable of connecting to and communicating over a
network, whether wired or wireless. In some embodiments, the
platform may receive user input of survey answers from the user
device and attempt to pre-qualify the user based on available
guidelines at 106, such as government stipulated testing
requirements. In some embodiments, at 106, information can be
gathered about the user that may facilitate various functionality
of the testing platform. For example, at 106, the user's identity
can be verified. Verification of the user's identity can occur in
various ways as described further below. In some embodiments,
verification of the user's identity comprises checking the users ID
(e.g., driver's license or passport). In some embodiments,
verification of the user's identity comprises checking the user's
identity using a health card or test pass as described further
below. In some embodiments, the user's identity is verified using
biometrics. Additionally, information about the user may be
gathered at this stage which may facilitate matching the user to a
proctor within the system in a manner that improves the efficiency
of the system. User-proctor matching is described in more detail
below. If a patient is pre-qualified, user information gathered
during user registration and/or the patient survey may be
transmitted by the platform to a third-party test prescriber at
108. In some embodiments, a medical test may not require a
prescription, in which case a test could be directly sent to the
patient without involvement of a third-party. In some embodiments,
the third-party prescriber could be the administrator of the health
testing and diagnostic platform.
[0065] In some embodiments, at 110, the platform may receive
confirmation of a valid prescription of the requested medical test
for the patient. The test, along with instructions on how to
collect a test sample, may be delivered, for example, via mail, to
the patient by the platform administrator or by a third-party. In
some embodiments, at 112, a user patient may receive the requested
test. Within a prescribed amount of time (or in some cases, an
unspecified amount of time), the user patient may enter a test
environment of the platform via a user device, such as a personal
computer, a cellular phone, a smartphone, a laptop, a tablet
computer, an e-reader device, an audio player, or another device
capable of connecting to and communicating over a network, whether
wired or wireless at 114. Further, the user device at 114 may be
the same user device as used at 104 or it may be a different
device. For example, the user may access the pre-qualification
survey at 104 on a smart phone and then, at 114, enter the test
environment on the same smart phone or on a different device, such
as a table or laptop. Upon entering the testing environment or a
virtual waiting room of the test environment, the platform may
manually or automatically match the user patient with a medical
provider proctor at 116 to administer the test. The system may
provide user-proctor matching in a variety of ways to improve the
efficiency and accuracy of the platform. As noted below, various
factors of both the users and the proctors may be analyzed to
facilitate user-proctor matching.
[0066] Upon matching of the user and the proctor, a testing session
may begin at 120, with a prompt and testing session being provided
to the proctor and a test session recording beginning at 122. In
some embodiments, during the testing session, the proctor may guide
the user patient through the testing process using provided prompts
and tools in order to receive a test result at 124. The proctor
and/or the platform may perform validation of the test result using
a video feed of the test from the user device or through a static
image taken by the user device at 126. In some embodiments, the
platform may store the test result in connection with a user
profile created for the patient at 128. Furthermore, at 128, the
test results may be reported to various government agencies, health
authorities, and/or third parties as mandated or desired. In some
embodiments, the platform may generate and transmit the verified
test result to the patient at 130. In some embodiments, the
verified test results may be in the form of a digital health card
or "passport" with various information including the test result,
date of the test, expiration, and any other relevant details. In
some embodiments, the verified test result may be received by the
patient via the platform or a third-party website or application at
132.
[0067] FIG. 2 illustrates an example flowchart of a method for
registering a user and ordering a diagnostic test for an at
home-testing protocol according to some embodiments described
herein. In some embodiments, a user patient may access the platform
and be prompted to register with the platform and create a user
account at 202. In some embodiments, registration may involve
collection of user data, such as personal information, medical
history, and/or insurance information, among others. In some
embodiments, registration and/or creation of a user account may
result in a user profile creation within a user database of the
platform, in which the above information may be stored at 204. In
some embodiments, user identity information is verified and stored
at 204. In some embodiments, information that will be used to
facilitate user-proctor matching can be obtained and stored at
204.
[0068] Also, upon creation of a user account, the user may order a
test kit at 206, which may involve a pre-qualification process such
as that described with respect to FIG. 1. In some embodiments, the
platform may process the test order, including payment and/or
insurance at 208. Upon completion of the transaction process, the
platform may automatically order a test kit, such as through an
application programming interface, from a third-party pharmacy at
210. In some embodiments, the pharmacy may review the user
information and request at 212 and approve a test kit order at 214.
In some embodiments, after approval, a test kit may be shipped to
the patient from the pharmacy, from the testing platform, or from a
third party at 216. In some embodiments, the patient may receive
the test kit at 218 and be prompted to activate the test kit at
220. Activation of the test may involve connecting test
identification information with the user profile, in order to
ensure that the patient is using the correct test at the time of
the testing session. In some embodiments, the health testing and
diagnostic platform may update the user profile of the patient with
the unique test kit information at 222.
[0069] In some embodiments, one or more of the exchanges between
the user and the testing platform as described above with reference
to one or both of FIGS. 1 and 2 may be made through and/or
facilitated by an inline frame or "iFrame" HTML element of a
website or web application. In at least some of these embodiments,
the website or web application may be hosted by an entity other
than that which maintains the testing platform, such as a pharmacy
or e-commerce business. Such an iFrame may effectively enable a
website, web application, or components thereof that are hosted by
the entity that maintains the testing platform to be embedded in
the website or web application that is hosted by this other entity.
In this way, users of the website or web application hosted by
another entity, e.g., a pharmacy or e-commerce business, can
quickly and seamlessly connect with the testing platform to order
test kits, among other things. In some cases, test kit orders
and/or prescription drug orders may be fulfilled at least in part
by the other entity. For instance, if the other entity is a
pharmacy, then test kit orders and/or prescription drug orders may
be made available to users for pickup at their nearest pharmacy
branch. Similarly, if the other entity is an e-commerce business,
then test kit orders and/or prescription drug orders may be
delivered to users by leveraging the business's existing supply
chain and logistics infrastructure. In some embodiments, users may
have the option to have test kit orders and/or prescription drug
orders delivered to them via a shipping service or a courier
service for rapid same day delivery.
[0070] As an example, the website for "Duncan's Pharmacy" may
include an iFrame element that enables users of the website to
interface with the entity that maintains the testing platform
without having to manually navigate away from and/or back to the
Duncan's Pharmacy website. As such, users of the website for
Duncan's Pharmacy may be able to easily complete pre-qualification
surveys, create accounts with the testing platform, order test
kits, and the like. When ordering test kits through the iFrame on
the Duncan's Pharmacy website, in some instances, users may be
given the option to have the test kits delivered directly to them
or pick their test kits up from their nearest location of Duncan's
Pharmacy. Other arrangements are possible.
[0071] FIG. 3 illustrates an example flowchart of an on-demand
testing protocol with a proctor according to some embodiments
described herein. In some embodiments, once a test kit has been
received and activated by a patient, the patient may access the
platform via a user device in order to initiate an on-demand
testing session at 302. In some embodiments, the on-demand testing
session must be initiated by the patient within a prescribed period
of time after receiving or activating the test kit. In some
embodiments, initiation of the testing session by the patient may
cause the platform to place the patient in a virtual waiting room,
where the patient's testing session will be queued at 306 pending a
match with an available medical provider proctor at 308 In some
embodiments, after the proctor has been matched with the patient or
upon manual selection of the patient by the proctor, the proctor
may review the patient information and accept the request to begin
the testing session at 310. Acceptance of the request may initiate
a unique, one-way or two-way video session between the patient and
the proctor at 312 provided by the platform. In some embodiments,
the video session may involve a guided test process at 314 for the
patient on a user device and at 316 for the proctor using a proctor
device, which could be a mobile device, laptop, desktop, or other
computer device. As a first step in the testing session, the
proctor and patient may follow provided on-screen steps to ensure
that the patient is verified and qualified at 318, 320, as well as
to verify the that the test to be used matches the test information
stored in the user profile upon test activation. After verification
and qualification, the proctor may guide the patient through a
series of steps comprising a testing protocol in order to achieve a
test result. In some embodiments, a test result may be verified by
the proctor and/or patient at 322, 324. In some instances, test
result verification involves a visual inspection of the test kit by
the proctor to determine and manually submit the test result. In
some embodiments, the verified test result is submitted by the
proctor and stored within a test database of the platform at
326.
[0072] FIG. 4 illustrates an example flowchart of a method of
reporting testing results according to some embodiments described
herein. In some embodiments, a verified test result may be received
by the testing platform at 402 from a testing session completed by
a patient and proctor. In some embodiments, the platform may update
the user profile with the verified test results at 404. In some
embodiments, at 406, the platform may transmit the verified test
results to various third-party entities, including national, state,
and/or local government entities and third-party entities at 408,
and to the user at 410. In some embodiments, transmission of the
verified test result to the user may be through a third-party. In
some embodiments, the verified test results may be transmitted in
the form of a health card or passport, with additional information
regarding the test, including the test type, date of the test, test
determination or result, or any other relevant information. In some
embodiments, in the event of a positive test, the user patient may
be referred to a telehealth consultant via the platform or by a
third-party at 412.
[0073] FIG. 5 illustrates an example diagram of a health card or
test pass according to some embodiments described herein. In some
embodiments, as noted above, verified test results may be
transmitted to a user patient in the form of a health card, test
pass, or health passport. Such a health card may provide an easily
accessible summary of test results to a patient and to interested
third parties such as government officials, travel authorities, or
event organizers/security. In some embodiments, the health card 500
may comprise personal information 502, identifying the user patient
by the patient's name, date of birth, photograph, or otherwise. In
some embodiments, the health card may also comprise a test result
504, a date of issue of the test result 506, and a test type 508.
In addition, the health card may comprise an expiration 512, which
may comprise easily accessible information regarding expiration of
the dependability of the test result based on health guidelines
provided by government entities or otherwise. In some embodiments,
the health card 500 may comprise a quick response (QR) code that
may direct interested parties to a webpage containing additional
information about the patient, the test, the test results, and/or
other tests that the patient has undergone. Additional detail
regarding test passes is described further below.
[0074] FIG. 6 illustrates an example flowchart for a proctor
certification and testing protocol according to some embodiments
provided herein. In some embodiments, a medical provider may apply
and register to become a proctor for the health testing and
diagnostic platform through, for example, a website or mobile
application at 602. In some embodiments, the proctor may undergo a
training process at 604 in order to prepare the medical provider to
manage patient testing sessions and administer at-home medical
testing via the platform. Upon passing one or more certification
and verification tests, the proctor may be certified by the
platform automatically or upon manual approval of an administrator
at 606. In some embodiments, once certified, a proctor may gain
access to a proctor dashboard at 608, wherein the proctor dashboard
may be used to track testing statistics, proctor performance, and
initiate test sessions. In some embodiments, initiating a testing
session via the dashboard may enter the proctor into a virtual
waiting room at 610, where the proctor may select a patient (or
patients) for a testing session or be automatically assigned to a
patient (or patients). In some embodiments, after verifying patient
information, the proctor may enter a test session with the
patient(s) at 612. In some embodiments, upon completion of prompts
(e.g., step-by-step prompts) comprising the test session protocol,
a test result may be obtained, which can be interpreted and
submitted by the proctor at 614.
[0075] FIG. 7 illustrates an example flowchart for providing care
to a patient via a health testing and diagnostic platform according
to some embodiments provided herein. In some embodiments, in
addition to providing a remote medical test environment, the
platform may be used to provide general, urgent, or emergency care
to a patient through connection of patients to third-party medical
providers. In some embodiments, a user patient may enter a website
or app of the platform at 702. In some embodiments, the user
patient may be prompted to answer a series of questions generated
by the platform in order to verify symptoms of and/or other
information about the user patient at 704. In addition to the
symptom checker, the user patient may also be prompted by the
platform to complete a medical questionnaire to provide additional
information regarding the patient's condition, health history,
and/or other relevant information at 706. In some embodiments, the
information gathered at 704 and 706 can include information
regarding the user patient's travel history and/or future travel
plans. For example, the process of can include presenting the user
with questions regarding their travel plans (e.g., "Are you
planning to travel into or out of the United States within the next
72 hours?"). The information from the symptom checker and the
medical questionnaire may be transmitted automatically at 708 to a
third-party or registered healthcare provider. The information may
be routed to specific medical providers based on the answers
provided by the patient such that medical providers with specific
expertise, language skills, and/or location may be selected. In
some embodiments, the medical provider may provide a diagnosis to
the patient, at 708 which may include one or more drug or test
prescriptions at 710 to be fulfilled at 714 via a third-party
pharmacy. All of the above steps can be completed by the platform
without the patient being physically present with the medical
provider or at the pharmacy. In some embodiments, the patient may
be prompted to provide delivery information to the platform at 712,
which may be automatically transmitted to the pharmacy for
fulfillment of the prescription.
[0076] As mentioned above, in some embodiments, one or more of the
exchanges between the user and the testing platform as described
above with reference to one or both of FIGS. 1 and 2 may be made
through and/or facilitated by an iFrame of a website or web
application. Similarly, in some embodiments, the user may enter the
website or app of the platform at 702 in FIG. 7 through an iFrame
element provided on a website or web application that is hosted by
an entity other than that which maintains the platform, such as a
pharmacy or e-commerce business. As such, in these embodiments, one
or more of the exchanges between the user and the platform at one
or more of 704, 706, and 712 may occur by way of the iFrame.
[0077] FIG. 8 illustrates an example pre-testing confirmation
interface according to some embodiments. The pre-testing
confirmation interface may be displayed to a patient who has
indicated that the patient is ready to begin testing. In some
embodiments, the pre-testing confirmation interface may comprise
various verification questions that are designed to ensure that the
patient has the time and materials necessary to being a testing
session. For example, it may be required that the patient has at
least 20 minutes to administer the test, as well an unopened test
package received via mail or otherwise properly obtained. Within
the pre-testing confirmation page, the patient may also need to
verify personal information, such as their date of birth, in order
to proceed to the virtual waiting room and to a testing
session.
[0078] FIG. 9 illustrates an example pre-testing virtual waiting
room according to some embodiments provided herein. In some
embodiments, the pre-testing virtual waiting room may be displayed
to a patient after completing pre-testing verification and
confirmation. In the virtual waiting room, the patient may await
dynamic connection with a proctor, who will oversee a testing
session with the patient. In some embodiments, once a proctor has
selected to begin a test with the patient or is automatically
assigned to the patient, a unique activation code may be
transmitted to the patient via short message service (SMS), text
message, electronic mail (E-mail), voice call, or another
electronic communication channel.
[0079] FIG. 10 illustrates an example unique code submission
interface according to some embodiments provided herein. In some
embodiments, a patient may be directed to the unique code
submission interface once the patient has been matched with a
proctor. In some embodiments, the match may occur after the patient
enters a virtual waiting room. In some embodiments, the unique code
submission interface may allow the patient to enter a unique
activation code for entering a private one-way or two-way
communication channel with a proctor. In some embodiments, the
unique code submission may initiate testing session between the
patient and the proctor.
[0080] FIG. 11 illustrates an example patient testing interface
according to some embodiments provided herein. The example testing
interface 1100 may be displayed to a patient for facilitating one
or more medical tests on the patient and provides instructions and
tools for self-administering the test and connecting with a
proctor, who oversees and provides guidance during the test. The
interface may be designed to accurately record a patient test
result and to allow the patient to understand the exact
step-by-step procedure that must be followed to achieve a
successful test result.
[0081] In some embodiments, the example testing interface 1100 may
comprise a session progress indicator 1102. The session progress
indicator 1102 may provide a visual and/or audible indicator of the
progress of a testing session. For example, the session progress
indicator 1102 may show a step number, a timer, a timeline, or
other indicator of progress. The session progress indicator 1102
may assist a patient in determining the current status of the
testing session.
[0082] In some embodiments, the example testing interface 1100 may
comprise testing instructions 1104. In some embodiments, the
testing instructions 1104 may comprise step-by-step instructions
that the patient must follow in relation to a provided at-home test
kit in order to self-administer the test and achieve a valid test
result. In some embodiments, the testing instructions 1104 may be
read by a patient in addition to audible instructions provided by
the platform or manually by a proctor. The proctor may be heard by
the patient via a secure communication channel and in some
embodiments, may be visible in a live proctor video feed 1108. In
other embodiments, a virtual proctor avatar may be shown instead of
the proctor video feed. In some embodiments, a prerecorded video
may be displayed rather than a live proctor video feed.
[0083] In some embodiments, proctor information 1108 may be
displayed and provide information to the patient regarding the
proctor that is overseeing the testing session, including, for
example, the proctor's name, certifications, and a photograph of
the proctor, among others.
[0084] In some embodiments, the example testing interface 1100 may
also comprise one or more options 1110, a support link 1112, and
one or more call options 1114. In some embodiments, the options
1110 may comprise general platform options, including accessibility
options, video options, and other miscellaneous options. In some
embodiments, the support link 1112 may connect the patient to an
administrator or other support personnel, in the event that such
support is needed. For example, if there is an emergency with the
proctor or patient, or there is an issue with testing, the support
link 1112 may allow a third-party to join the testing session. The
call options 1118 may, for example allow a patient to mute their
device microphone or end the testing session.
[0085] FIG. 12 illustrates another example patient testing
interface according to some embodiments described herein. In some
embodiments, the patient testing interface may comprise directions
to register a medical test using a camera on the user device. For
example, some commercially available diagnostic tests comprise a QR
code comprising a data matrix that has an encoded ID. In some
embodiments, the platform may perform a scan through the user
camera to read the data matrix. In some embodiments, the read data
may be sent automatically to the test provider through, for
example, an application programming interface. In some embodiments,
the delivery and patient data and all other pertinent information
may be retrieved from the test provider to verify that the test and
patient in the testing session match with the platform records. In
some embodiments, the user may be directed to display or scan the
code multiple times throughout a testing session in order to verify
that the same test is being used throughout an entire session. For
example, scanning the code at the start of the testing session,
immediately before and after critical testing steps, and/or at the
end of the testing session can prevent a user from switching tests
midway through the testing session. In some embodiments, the data
matrix can also be read, such that a unique code is obtained, which
can be compared against all previous codes read by the platform. If
a duplicate code is read, the test may be discarded.
[0086] FIG. 13 illustrates an example test initiation interface
according to some embodiments herein. In some embodiments, the test
initiation interface comprises a test initiation mechanism and an
indicator of the number of patients waiting in a virtual waiting
room. Upon, selection of the test initiation mechanism, a test
session may begin between a proctor and a patient. In some
embodiments, a proctor may be prompted to select a patient from a
list of patients in the virtual waiting room. In some embodiments,
the proctor may be automatically and dynamically assigned to a
patient in the waiting room. In some embodiments, the assignment
may be based on proctor location, language ability, medical
expertise, or other factors. In other embodiments, the assignment
may be made based on wait time of patients.
[0087] FIG. 14 illustrates an example pre-testing interface
according to some embodiments herein. In some embodiments, the
pre-testing interface of FIG. 14 may be displayed to a proctor upon
initiating a test session. The pre-testing interface may comprise
patient information, such as the patient's name and date of birth,
as well as a photo of the patient. In some embodiments, the proctor
may be prompted to verify that the patient that joins the testing
session matches the patient shown in the patient photo of the
pre-testing interface. In some embodiments, the pre-testing
interface may comprise one or more audio/video options, such as
options for selecting a microphone and speaker for conducting the
testing session.
[0088] FIG. 15A illustrates an example testing interface 1500
according to some embodiments herein. In some embodiments, the
example testing interface 1500 may be displayed to a proctor for
testing one or more patients and provides tools to facilitate
management of testing, including verbal prompts, a video feed of
the patent, and a timer and alert mechanism for the test read. The
interface may be designed to accurately record a patient test
result and to allow the proctor to provide useful information about
various issues that may have resulted in a failed result or no
result being obtained.
[0089] In some embodiments, the example testing interface 1500 may
comprise a session progress indicator 1502. The session progress
indicator 1502 may provide a visual and/or audible indicator of the
progress of a testing session. For example, the session progress
indicator 1502 may show a step number, a timer, a timeline, or
other indicator of progress. The session progress indicator 1502
may assist a proctor in determining the current status of the
testing session, especially in situations in which the proctor is
managing multiple testing sessions simultaneously.
[0090] In some embodiments, the example testing interface 1500 may
comprise patient information 1504 and a patient video feed 1506.
The patient information 1504 may provide information to the proctor
regarding the patient that is the subject of a testing session,
including, for example, the patient's name, date of birth, age,
language, and a photograph of the patient, among other types of
information. In some embodiments, the patient video feed 1506 may
comprise a live video feed of the patient during the testing
session. In some embodiments, the patient video feed may comprise a
recording of the patient. In some embodiments, the patient video
feed 1506 may allow a proctor to monitor a patient and testing
session, and to direct the patient regarding the test protocol.
[0091] In some embodiments, the example testing interface 1500 may
also comprise a prompt/script 1508, a notes/test result section
1510, and a patient view 1512. In some embodiments, the prompt 1508
may comprise a written script for the proctor to audibly read to
the patient during the testing session. In some embodiments, the
prompt 1508 may automatically update based on the current step of
the testing session. In some embodiments, a navigation menu 1520
may be sued by the proctor to move forward and back through the
testing steps. In some embodiments, the notes/test result section
1510 may comprise various notes for the proctor's consideration
during the current testing step. During interpretation of a test,
the notes/test result section 1510 may comprise a guide for test
interpretation and/or a mechanism to submit a test result. In some
embodiments, the patient view 1512 may comprise a section showing
the content that is currently being displayed on a patient's
computer. In some embodiments, the patient view 1512 may comprise a
copy of the content displayed on the patient's screen or a live
stream of the patient's screen.
[0092] In some embodiments, a prompt 1508 may comprise a written
script on the interface, which will indicate, for each step of or
whatever phase of testing the particular patient is in, the words
that the proctor will read for that specific step. In some
embodiments, the prompt may be automatically read by the health
testing and diagnostic platform. In other embodiments, the proctor
may read the prompt audibly to the patient. In some embodiments, a
prerecorded video or dialogue may be played at specific times
during the testing, which will comprise a prerecorded script
comprising the prompt 1508. In some embodiments, the prerecorded
script may be played under supervision of a proctor.
[0093] In some embodiments, the example testing interface 1500 may
also comprise one or more options 1514, a support link 1516, and
one or more call options 1518. In some embodiments, the options
1514 may comprise general platform options, including accessibility
options, video options, and other miscellaneous options. In some
embodiments, the support link 1516 may connect the proctor to an
administrator or other support personnel, in the event that such
support is needed. For example, if there is an emergency with the
proctor or patient, or there is an issue with testing, the support
link 1516 may allow a third-party to join the testing session. In
some embodiments, a substitute proctor may be able to join the
testing session to resume testing using, for example, the session
progress indicator 1502 and the prompt 1508.
[0094] In some embodiments, the health testing and diagnostic
platform may assign one or more designated users (e.g., supervisors
or others) to have administrator rights and privileges. In some
embodiments, an administrator may view the full scope of proctor
sessions occurring, including a list of proctors active on the
platform and pending test sessions. In some embodiments, an
administrator can join into a testing session anonymously and
quietly as a third-party overseer, for purposes such as random
audits. In some embodiments, administrators may join testing
session for joint proctor training or feedback. In some
embodiments, in an emergency situation, the support link 1516 may
connect the proctor to a customer service team, wherein the
customer service team may be sent part of or the whole dataset of a
testing session, including the user information, the user picture,
and proctor information.
[0095] FIG. 15B illustrates another example testing interface
according to some embodiments provided herein. In some embodiments,
the testing interface may comprise a video feed 1506 comprising an
image/video of the patient 1522 or a plurality of images/videos of
a plurality of patients. In some embodiments, software, such as
machine learning or artificial intelligence software, or
non-machine learning or artificial intelligence algorithms (for
example, image segmentation analysis, pattern recognition, or the
like) or otherwise, may be used to detect elements within the video
feed 1506. These elements may include, for example, a patient 1522,
a patient reference element 1524, a test 1526, and a test reference
element 1528. In some embodiments, the software may be configured
to monitor the video feed 1506 to ensure proper test protocol and
completion. For example, in some embodiments, the software may
utilize image or video recognition algorithms to periodically or
continuously measure one or more relative distances and/or
movements of the patient reference element 1524 and the test
reference element 1528. In some embodiments, the patient reference
element 1524 may comprise the patient's nostril, nose, lip, mouth,
eye, ear, or any other body part. In some embodiments, the testing
reference element 1528 may comprise a line or other visual
indicator on the test 1526. In some embodiments, by measuring a
horizontal and/or vertical distance and/or movement between the
patient reference element 1524 and the test reference element 1528,
the software may compare such values against predetermined
threshold values to verify proper testing protocols are satisfied,
for example, minimum/maximum distance traveled or reached,
minimum/maximum number of motions and/or rotations performed. In
other embodiments, machine learning and/or artificial intelligence
may be used to interpret the patient video feed 1506 to verify
testing procedures are completed properly.
[0096] FIG. 16 illustrates an example test analysis and
interpretation interface according to some embodiments herein. In
some embodiments, during a test or upon completion of a test by a
patient, the test may be displayed on a camera of a user device,
such that the test and result can be verified. In some embodiments,
the test may be verified manually by a proctor viewing the image of
the test displayed via the test analysis and interpretation test
analysis and interpretation interface. In some embodiments, the
health testing and diagnostics platform may record the patient
video to verify test integrity.
[0097] In some embodiments, the test analysis and interpretation
interface may comprise one or more interactive tools, which the
proctor may utilize to ensure test integrity. For example, one tool
that may be used would be an interactive pen/marker/highlighter
that can be used to annotate the patient video feed to guarantee
that the test is not moved or altered.
[0098] FIG. 17 illustrates another example test analysis and
interpretation interface according to some embodiments herein. FIG.
17 illustrates a patient video feed showing a completed test
awaiting interpretation. Within the test analysis and
interpretation interface, a proctor may view a patient test
image/video, interpret a test results, and select the interpreted
test results for submission.
[0099] In some embodiments, a patient video feed or test image is
not optimal such that the result may be difficult to interpret. For
example, the patient's video may be too bright or dark, may be
blurry, or otherwise lack sufficient visibility. Thus, in some
embodiments, the test analysis and interpretation interface may
comprise one or more image adjustment tools to manipulate image
properties such as the contrast and brightness. The image
adjustment tools may be used to adjust the image to enrich the view
of the test. Example image adjustment tools include, for example,
brightness, contrast, saturation, and color adjusters, among
others.
[0100] In some embodiments, instead of utilizing live video of a
patient test, the health testing and diagnostic platform may
capture one or more static images of a patient test from the live
video feed. In some embodiments, the static image may be captured
directly from the user device of the patient. In some embodiments,
the test image can be sent as a full-size file over the internet to
the proctor and viewed on the test analysis and interpretation
interface. In some embodiments, the image can be adjusted using the
one or more image adjustment tools. In some embodiments, using an
image captured using the user device may result in an image that
has enhanced resolution and clarity relative to using a live image
streamed over a video conferencing network. In some embodiments,
the image of the test obtained from the user device of a patient
may be captured during a patient video session with the proctor,
but is not captured from the live video stream.
[0101] FIG. 18 illustrates another example testing interface
according to some embodiments herein. The testing interface of FIG.
18 illustrates the conclusion of a testing session from the proctor
perspective. The testing interface comprises a mechanism for ending
the testing session and severing the audio/video channel with the
test patient.
[0102] FIG. 19 illustrates an example testing summary interface
according to some embodiments provided herein. In some embodiments,
the testing summary interface may be used by an administrator,
proctor, or health official to analyze testing statistics and
distribution across one or more test sites or demographics. For
example, the testing summary interface may comprise data including
remaining available tests, approved test sites, a number of
administered tests, a number of tests, and a distribution of
administered tests and proctors across test sites. From the testing
summary interface, a user may access a test distribution interface,
as described with respect to FIG. 20.
[0103] FIG. 20 illustrates an example test distribution interface
according to some embodiments provided herein. In some embodiments,
the test distribution interface may be used by an administrator,
proctor, or health official to distribute available tests among one
or more test sites to be administered with or without the health
testing and diagnostic platform remote testing protocol. Submission
of a test distribution may automatically initiate an order and/or
distribution of the submitted tests to the selected test sites.
[0104] FIG. 21 illustrates an example multi-session management
interface according to some embodiments provided herein. The
multi-session management interface displays one or more pending
test sessions, as well as their statuses. The sessions displayed in
the multi-session management interface may comprise sessions of
patients in a virtual waiting room or currently in a test session.
As such, proctors, via the multi-session management interface, may
manage pending test sessions and initiate new test sessions as
patients and the proctor become available for testing. In some
embodiments, the multi-session management interface may be general
in that it shows test-ready patients for any test, location, or
other parameter. However, in some embodiments, multi-session
management interface may be specific to a specific medical test, a
specific location, or to patients who speak a certain language,
among others.
[0105] FIG. 22 illustrates an example testing dashboard interface
according to some embodiments provided herein. In some embodiments,
the testing dashboard interface displays a list of completed test
sessions, including test results and other test details such as the
date of test completion. In some embodiments, the testing dashboard
interface may also comprise one or more test statistics,
summarizing the test data for each specific proctor, test type, or
test location, among other types of information. For example, the
testing dashboard interface may comprise statistics regarding the
remaining tests, the completed tests, test result data for a
specific time, location, or demographic and overall test result
data.
[0106] FIG. 23 illustrates an example multi-session testing
interface according to some embodiments provided herein. In some
embodiments, the multi-session interfaces shown herein may be
designed to manage a scenario where a proctor is managing more than
one testing sessions simultaneously. In some embodiments, the
multi-session interfaces may comprise multiple views that can be
displayed, each view representing a one-to-one with a patient. As
such, in some embodiments, the proctor is able to interface with a
single patient at a point in time, but manage more than one patient
testing sessions simultaneously, and switch between those sessions
seamlessly. In some embodiments, the multi-session interfaces
described herein may facilitate isolated audio/video sessions
between multiple patients simultaneously through use of
single-channel audio, on-screen session progress indicators, and
proctor prompts.
[0107] In some embodiments, the multi-session testing interfaces
described herein may allow for concurrency of about 2 to about 20
patient testing sessions for a single proctor. In some embodiments,
the multi-session testing interfaces may comprise a workflow
timeline that identifies patient testing progress for pending
testing sessions, such that a proctor can immediately understand
the progress of each pending session and switch between each
isolated session as needed. For example, for some disease testing,
there may be a testing cure time during which the patient and
proctor are waiting for the test results. During this time, the
multi-session testing interface may allow a proctor to switch an
active session to another patient at a different point in the
testing process such that multiple sessions can be managed
simultaneously. The multi-session interfaces may introduce a supply
line of isolated patient video sessions such that the patient
sessions are stacked efficiently and proctor availability is
maximized. In some embodiments, the multi-session interfaces may
comprise a management tool that allows proctors to track the
concurrent session timeline and to understand the upcoming timing
requirements of each isolated session and the sessions
collectively.
[0108] In some embodiments, each patient testing session enables a
separate audio/video channel such that patients are isolated from
each other and cannot hear or see other patient testing sessions,
while the proctor may activate each individual patent testing
session to communicate directly with each patient. Thus, the
audio/video channels for each patient are segmented into separate
feeds such that individual sessions are distinctly managed
separately with separate session IDs and in such a way that none of
the patients can talk to each other or are even aware that multiple
sessions are occurring concurrently. In some embodiments, a proctor
may activate a specific patient testing session through an
activation mechanism on the proctor's screen, such as by selecting
a patient video feed. The activation mechanism will open the audio
and/or video channel with the specific patient for which the
patient testing session has been chosen. This configuration
minimizes the risk of exposing sensitive medical or personal data
between patients; only the proctor may communicate with each
patient. Furthermore, the multi-session interfaces described and
shown herein facilitate efficient session switching through visual
prompts that allow a proctor to understand the point at which each
testing session is currently progressed.
[0109] In some embodiments, the multi-session interfaces may
comprise individual patient mute mechanisms, which may close the
communication channel with an individual testing session, as well
as a global mute mechanism, which may close all communication
channels between the proctor and all pending testing sessions. In
some embodiments, only one patient testing communication channel
may be opened at a time, such that a proctor may only communicate
with a single patient at a single point in time. For example,
opening a communication with one patient may automatically close
(e.g., mute) a communication channel with all other patients to
ensure that privacy between patients is maintained.
[0110] The multi-session interface of FIG. 23 illustrates a proctor
view in which the screen is separated into a main session (e.g.,
the upper portion of the screen) and one or more secondary sessions
(e.g., shown in a lower toolbar of the screen below the main
session). In some embodiments, the proctor may have an open
communication channel to the main session, while the secondary
sessions remain muted. In some embodiments, the proctor may be
enabled to exchange the main session with one of the secondary
sessions by selecting one of the secondary sessions. Selecting one
of the secondary sessions may cause display of that secondary
session as the main session, and relegate the previous main session
to the secondary session toolbar. In some embodiments, the
multi-session interfaces may comprise one or more visual cues to
indicate to the proctor the status of each patient session and to
alert the proctor if attention is needed for any given session. For
example, in the illustrated embodiment, such visual cues include an
elapsed testing time for each patient, a countdown timer, and a
question indicator.
[0111] FIG. 24 illustrates another example multi-session testing
interface according to some embodiments provided herein. In some
embodiments, a multi-session testing interface may comprise a
multi-window interface, as shown in FIG. 24. In some embodiments,
the multi-window interface may comprise one or more testing
interfaces, such as that shown in FIG. 15A. However, in some
embodiments, the multi-session testing interface may be enabled to
track and manage multiple testing interfaces concurrently. As with
the multi-session testing interface of FIG. 23, the interface may
be segmented into separate feeds such that individual sessions are
distinctly managed separately with separate session IDs and in such
a way that none of the patients can talk to each other or are even
aware that multiple sessions are occurring concurrently. For
example, selecting one window of the one or more windows may open a
secure communication channel with the patient of the selected
window, and closing any other open communication channels. Also,
each window may comprise one or more visual or auditory indicators
of test status, such that a proctor can more easily manage the one
or more patient test sessions occurring concurrently. In some
embodiments, the multi-session testing interface may comprise
individual testing sessions, each opened in a separate browser
window.
[0112] FIG. 25A illustrates another example multi-session testing
interface according to some embodiments provided herein. The
multi-session testing interface of FIG. 25A may be functionally
similar or identical to the interface of FIG. 24, except that the
individual testing sessions may be displayed in a single browser
window.
[0113] FIG. 25B illustrates another example multi-session testing
interface 2502 according to some embodiments. In some embodiments,
the testing interface 2502 may comprise one or more patient video
feeds 2504. In some embodiments, the patient video feeds 2504 may
comprise individual concurrent testing sessions with individual
patients. In some embodiments, the individual testing sessions may
be automatically highlighted or manually selected by a proctor in
order to interact with the patient subject of the highlighted
session. In some embodiments, the highlighted session may also
pop-out or otherwise enlarge relative to the other sessions, such
that the proctor may access relevant information. In some
embodiments, a proctor may use the interface 2502 to monitor a
computer algorithm, which may be autonomously administering the
tests to patients in patient video feeds 2504. In some embodiments,
individual sessions may be highlighted by the algorithm for proctor
intervention into the testing session. In some embodiments, the
proctor may manually intervene in one or more testing sessions by
selecting the desired patient video feed 2504.
[0114] FIG. 25C illustrates another example multi-session testing
interface according to some embodiments herein. In some
embodiments, the interface may comprise a timeline comprising one
or more steps or stages S.sub.n, wherein n is an integer
representing the stage number in a sequence of stages comprising
the test protocol. For example, the interface of FIG. 25C comprises
S1, S2, and S3 representing three stages of a testing protocol. In
some embodiments, the interface may comprise one or more patient
video feeds 2504. The patient video feeds may be located within the
interface in such a way as to indicate the testing stage at which
the patient is currently undergoing. For example, in the
illustrated embodiments, patient 1 (P1) is at stage 1 (S1), patient
2 (P2) is at stage 2 (S2), and patient 3 (P3) is at stage 3 (S3).
In some embodiments, the testing interface may be utilized to allow
a proctor to monitor one or more concurrent testing sessions. The
testing interface may allow the proctor to easily understand the
stage at which each testing session is currently undergoing. In
some embodiments, the patient video feeds 2504 may change location
upon completion of each testing stage, such that the interface is
automatically and dynamically updated.
Expedited or Express Proctoring Platforms for at-Home Testing
[0115] The platforms and systems described throughout this
application can provide a number of advantages relating to the
administration and proctoring of at-home health testing and
diagnostics. For one, such platforms and systems provide users with
the option to perform health testing and diagnostics from the
comfort of their own home or otherwise without having to travel to
visit a healthcare professional in person. This in itself can
provide a number of benefits including, saving time, increasing
availability of testing, and decreasing the risk of exposure to
and/or spread of an infection disease, among others.
[0116] An additional benefit that can be achieved using the
platforms and systems described herein is that these can be
optimized to provide for a high throughput of user tests, while at
the same time minimizing the resources required to run the
platform. For example, as described above, the platforms and
systems described herein can be configured to allow a single
proctor to proctor a plurality of user tests at once. This can
provide advantages both for the platform and for the users. For
example, the platform can facilitate testing using fewer proctors,
thus leading to a reduction in operating costs. At the same time,
the testing and diagnostics provided through the system and
platforms described herein can still be readily available to a
large number of users and wait times for entering a proctored test
session can be reduced. Additional advantages achieved by some
embodiments described herein may include reduction in costs
associated with operating a testing platform (e.g., through a
reduction in operating and/or oversight costs) and/or reduction in
patient costs (e.g., by having them avoid unnecessary travel
costs). Additionally, some embodiments may allow users to
multi-task while testing, thereby increasing flexibility for the
users.
[0117] These and other benefits of the platforms and systems
described throughout this application can be further achieved or
even improved by, in some instances, offering certain users a more
streamlined or express test session. As will be described in more
detail below, such express test sessions can, for example, require
less proctor involvement and/or decrease the duration of the test
session for the user when compared with standard (e.g.,
non-express) test sessions. This can, in some instances, further
increase the benefits and advantages associated with the systems
and platforms for proctoring at-home health testing and diagnostics
by further improving the user experience (e.g., by decreasing test
session duration) and/or maximizing the availability and reach of
the platform (e.g., by increasing the platform's ability to provide
a high number of test sessions using fewer proctors).
[0118] Accordingly, in some instances, the platform can be
configured to tailor a proctoring session to a user's level of
test-taking experience. For example, users with less experience
with the test and/or platform can be directed into a standard
proctoring session, while users with more experience with the test
and/or platform can be directed into an express proctoring session.
As an even more specific example, users who are using the platform
to take a test for the very first time ("first-time users") may be
directed to the standard proctoring session (where, for example, a
proctor provides full-fledged step-by-step instructions for taking
the test), while users who have previously used the platform to
take tests ("repeat users") may be given the option to either
participate in (i) the standard proctoring experience, or (ii) an
express or expedited proctoring session where the users take the
test with reduced proctor participation/intervention.
[0119] As will be described in more detail below, various factors
can be considered by the system in determining whether to offer or
provide a user an express testing session. In some embodiments, the
factors used by the systems disclosed herein to determine
eligibility for express testing session can include one or more of
the following: a test taker's past experience in taking such a
test, a test taker's age, a test taker's language skills, a test
taker's ability to follow instructions (for example, whether a
system detects that the patient has completed certain initial tasks
of the test within a certain period of time and/or completed
certain initial tasks competently and/or with minimal supervision
and/or within a minimum number of attempts, and in some
embodiments, one or more of the foregoing factors can be used by
the system to enable the system to provide real-time or
substantially real-time grading of a user to determine eligibility
of the user to take and/or be offered an express testing session),
a test taker's computer literacy skills, a test taker's internet
connection speed and/or connection quality/stability, a test
taker's ability to have a physically present third-party to observe
the test taker, an artificial intelligence algorithm used to
observe the test taker's skills and/or ability to follow
instructions and/or administering the test (for example, the use of
artificial intelligence algorithms to determine whether the test
taker has inserted a swab to a minimum instructed depth into a
nasal cavity (or other orifice), and/or whether a test taker has
completed a minimum number of rotations of the swab in the nasal
cavity (or other orifice), or the like). In some embodiments, a
factor in determining a test taker's eligibility for taking an
express testing session can include but is not limited to whether
the test taker has paid a necessary fee, and/or the number of other
patients in a queue waiting to take a test, and/or the number of
available proctors administering tests, and/or whether the test
taker has a high priority flag setting in the users profile, and/or
whether the user has a time commitment factor (for example, the
user is about to board an airplane flight), and/or the location of
the user, and/or the local time of a user, and/or whether a doctor
has provided expedited instructions, and/or a test takers
determined anxiety level, and/or the like. These factors can be
selected so that a high degree of testing fidelity and accuracy is
maintained. That is, the system may offer express testing sessions
only to users for whom, upon consideration of one or more factors
associated with the user, the system determines that there is a
high probability of the user performing the test accurately with a
reduced amount of supervision. At the same time, the system can be
optimized such that express testing sessions are still reviewed by
proctors and/or other components of the system to ensure sufficient
testing accuracy.
[0120] Before considering eligibility factors and system
requirements for ensuring testing accuracy, several aspects of an
express testing session will now be described with the
understanding that not each and every aspect need be present in all
embodiments and that various modifications are also possible. In
general, express testing session can allow a user to perform a test
with reduced proctor involvement when compared to standard testing
sessions. For example, during a standard testing session, a proctor
may walk a user through each step of the process in great detail,
including even mundane or simple steps such as opening and
arranging the testing materials. By contrast, in some embodiments,
during an express testing session, the user may be only engaged by
the proctor, if at all, during more complex or critical steps of
the test. During an express testing session, for example, a
user_may be allowed to perform various steps of the test and
proctoring session with little-to-no proctor intervention. By
decreasing proctor involvement, in some instances, testing duration
may be decreased and/or testing capacity of the system can be
increased.
[0121] In some embodiments, a script or prompts provided to a
proctor (to be read to a test-taking user) may be different or
customized based on the type of session being proctored. For
example, a longer script or set if prompts may be provided for
standard testing sessions, while a shorter script of set of prompts
may be provided for express testing sessions. For example, in some
embodiments, in an express testing session, the proctor may
initially instruct the user to (i) perform the test and (ii) let
the proctor know when the user is ready to submit their testing
results (which may still ultimately be interpreted by the proctor).
In this case, proctor engagement with the user is limiting to an
initial instruction at the start of the session and verification of
the testing result at the end of the testing session. Other levels
of proctor involvement can also be provided in an express testing
session. For example, in some embodiments, proctor engagement only
begins when the user has completed the test and needs for the
result to be verified. In these embodiments, proctor involvement
may only occur at the end of the testing session. In some
embodiments, even though proctor engagement may be limited, one or
more proctors may still observe the user throughout the test (or
during certain portions of the test) so as to be able to ensure
that the test is performed properly and step in with corrective
action or additional instructions if necessary.
[0122] As another example, proctor involvement can be required only
for certain or critical testing steps. In the case of a nose swab,
for example, during an express testing session, a proctor may be
required to watch the swab occur so as to ensure that a sufficient
swab depth is reached. In some embodiments, the user, during an
express testing session, may be provided with written and/or
prerecorded video or audio instructions and the proctor may only be
involved with verifying that the steps are accurately followed. By
contrast, in some embodiments of a standard testing session, a live
proctor may read or walk a user through the instructions before
watching them perform the steps. Decreasing proctor involvement
with express testing sessions can increase proctor capacity and
improve overall throughput and efficiency of the system, allowing
proctors to focus more of their time on new or inexperienced users
that are unfamiliar with the process, while allowing repeat or
experienced users to perform certain steps on their own.
[0123] In some embodiments, during express testing sessions, a user
may not be required to remain on camera for the entirety of the
session. For example, the user may only be required to appear
before the camera immediately before and after taking the test
and/or during certain or critical testing steps. In some
embodiments, the user may need to appear on camera prior to taking
the test in order to verify their identity. In some embodiments,
the user may need to appear on camera after taking the test to have
the result verified by a proctor. In some embodiments, the user may
need to appear on camera during certain or critical testing steps
so that the system or a proctor can ensure that these steps are
performed with sufficient accuracy. In some embodiments, during an
express testing session, the entire session (or certain critical
steps) can be recorded such that the testing session can be audited
to ensure accuracy. Such auditing can be performed by a person
(e.g., a proctor reviewing the video) or by the system (e.g., by
using artificial intelligence or machine learning). In some
embodiments, during an express testing session that is recorded,
certain steps may be required to be viewed live by a proctor. These
and other techniques which do not require a live or concurrent
connection to the platform and/or a proctor at all steps of the
testing session can be beneficial for several reasons. For example,
this can permit reduction in power and/or bandwidth consumption.
Additionally, these techniques can permit testing where network
access is limited and/or unreliable.
[0124] In some embodiments, no live proctor interaction with the
user may be required at all. This may not mean that no proctor is
involved in the test. For example, a proctor may supervise (e.g.,
watch video of) express testing sessions without interacting with
(e.g., speaking to) the user. In such cases, the proctor may only
engage with the user when or if proctor engagement is requested by
the user and/or if the proctor needs to intervene to ensure that
the testing is performed accurately. By not requiring the proctor
to interact with users unless interaction is determined to be
necessary, a proctor may be able to supervise a higher number of
testing procedures at once. This may also provide additional
benefits such as widening the range of environments where testing
could occur. For instance, if proctors no longer need to be spoken
to or heard due to the express testing format, users can take tests
more easily in noisy airports, or even at home, work, or other
locations without interrupting or disturbing those around them.
Additionally, as mentioned above, this can reduce a bandwidth
requirement associated with testing, making testing more accessible
by allowing more users to take tests on slower and/or less reliable
networks, such as 4G or other slower connection speeds.
[0125] During express testing sessions, one or more proctors may be
on standby to answer any questions that a user might have and
provide general testing oversight. Proctors may step-in or
otherwise intervene during an express testing session if they spot
the user performing a step incorrectly or otherwise require
additional information and/or participation from the user. As one
example, a proctor may view a plurality of express testing sessions
at once and only intervene with any particular user when necessary.
In some embodiments, the proctor viewing the plurality of express
testing sessions may not be the same proctor as the proctor that
intervenes. For example, a proctoring monitoring a plurality of
express testing sessions may realize that a certain user needs
assistance and flag that user for intervention by another proctor.
In some embodiments, an express session proctor may move a user
from an express session to a standard session if it is determined
that the user needs additional assistance. In some embodiments, an
express session proctor may intervene and engage with an express
session user directly, as needed, and maintain the user in the
express session.
[0126] Determination of eligibility for participation in an express
testing session can be determined, in some embodiments, using a
score-based approach. A wide number of factors can be considered in
determining a patient's express testing session eligibility score.
For example, during a standard (or even an express) testing
session, proctors may "rate" or otherwise provide an indication of
their evaluation of a user's test-taking proficiency at the end of
the proctoring session. Such ratings can be considered in
determining whether future testing sessions of the user are
eligible for participation in an express testing session. In some
embodiments, proctor scores of user proficiency may be provided on
a scale (e.g., a scale of 1-10, where one indicates that a user
requires significant assistance and 10 indicates that a user
requires little to no assistance, a star-rating system (e.g., 1-5
stars), etc.). In other embodiments, proctor scores of user
proficiency may comprises a binary indicator of whether the user is
proficient/competent or not. Each system (scale-based or binary)
can provide advantages in certain scenarios. For example, a
scale-based system may provide data granularity that may allow the
system to make more nuanced determinations of eligibility, while
the binary system may be simpler to implement for proctors.
[0127] In some embodiments, users may also provide an indication of
their own proficiency and/or testing comfort upon completion of
testing session (express or standard), using either a scale-based
or binary system. Of course, care should be taken to ensure that
users ratings of themselves are accurate. This can be achieved by,
for example, comparing the user-provided score with the
proctor-provided score. Alternatively or additionally, the platform
may weigh the user's self-ratings against self-ratings of other
users in order to calibrate and standardize self-ratings across the
user-base. For example, if the user consistently rates themselves
highly compared to other similar users (as determined by the system
or other proctor-defined skill ratings), the system may adjust the
user's self-ratings with a scaling factor to standardize
self-ratings across the platform. In some embodiments, a user's
self-ratings can also be compared against his or her own past
self-ratings. For example, if a user that has an average
self-rating of 5 after a number of past tests gives him or herself
a self-rating of a 4 in a current test, the system may determine
lower the user's express testing eligibility since the change
represents a large deviation from past self-scores. This may occur
even though a self-rating of 4 for another user, who consistently
self-rates at 4, may remain eligible for express testing.
Alternatively or additionally, this can be provided using machine
learning and/or artificial intelligence by comparing the
user-provided score against one or more additional factors
determined by the system. Such factors could include for example,
machine learning- or artificial intelligence-based analysis of a
recorded video of patient's testing session, analysis of durations
taken by the user in performing various steps, etc. In some
embodiments, the user may be given the opportunity to formally (or
informally) attest to the truthfulness and accuracy of their
self-evaluation and/or agree to make a good faith effort to
complete every test administered on the platform in accordance with
the corresponding procedures, requirements, and guidelines.
[0128] Alternatively or additionally, a number of other factors
could be used to determine the user's score for eligibility to
participate in an express testing session. For example, the score
could be determined based, at least in part, on a number of times
the user has taken the test, how recently the user last took a
test, etc. From this, it is apparent that express testing sessions
would be beneficial for frequent testers. For example, a frequent
traveler may take tests often, becoming very familiar with the
process. On the other hand, users who seldom take tests or have not
taken a test in a relatively long time may be less familiar with
the process, and thus more likely to benefit from being
reacquainted with the process by way of the standard testing
session. Upon consideration of how many times, how frequently,
and/or how recently (possibly in conjunction with proctor-provided
and/or user-provided ratings and/or other factors), the system may
determine that the user is eligible for participation in an express
proctoring session.
[0129] In some embodiments, the score may also be determined based,
at least in part, on an assessment of how similar a user's current
testing environment is to the user's previous testing environment.
In general, a user repeating a test in an environment in which they
have previously taken the test or an environment similar to an
environment in which they have previously taken a test, may be
eligible for or receive in increased eligibility score for using an
express testing session. To this end, in some embodiments, the
user's eligibility score considers the user's IP address and/or GPS
data to determine the user's location, which is compared against
previous testing locations. Similarly, the type of user device the
user is using may be identified and compared to the type of user
device that the user has used previously. For example, a user who
previously performed the test using a laptop, but is now attempting
a test using a mobile phone, may not be eligible for express
testing until they have qualified using a mobile phone.
[0130] In some embodiments, responses provided during a
prequalification survey (such as the surveys described above) can
also be considered in determining whether a user is eligible for an
express testing session. For example, during a prequalification
survey a user may verify that he or she is a healthcare
professional that is competent to administer their own test. This
may qualify the user for an express testing session.
[0131] A score for each user can be determined and associated with
that user's account. If the score generated for the user exceeds a
predetermined threshold at the time the user signs in and attempts
to initiate a proctoring session, then the platform can give the
user the option to enter an express testing session or to enter a
standard testing session. The user's score can be continually
updated based on subsequent testing experiences.
[0132] A user may, in some cases, be able to test in to establish
eligibility for express testing sessions. For example, a user
desirous of eligibility for express testing can elect to take a
test to show that they are eligible for express testing. Such
testing can involve a standard testing session or a modified
testing session.
[0133] The systems and platforms for at-home health testing and
diagnostics described herein can be configured to allow at-home
testing for a wide variety of health and diagnostic tests. In some
instances, a user score that establishes eligibility for express
testing sessions can be specific to a certain test. In other
instances, a user score that establishes eligibility for express
testing can carry over to different types of tests available on the
platform. For example, a user who has taken a nasal swab-based test
several times and is eligible to use express testing session for
that test may also be eligible to use an express testing session
when taking a mouth swab-based test, even, in some cases, for the
first time the user takes the mouth swab-based test. In other
cases, the user may become eligible for express testing for new
tests only after taking the new test using a standard testing
session. Still, the user's score could decrease the requirement for
the user to become express eligible for the new test. For example,
the user (who has experience on the platform with a nose swab-based
test) could become eligible to use an express testing session to
take the mouth swab-based test after only taking said test once
(whereas a user who has never used the platform may be required to
successfully take the mouth swab-based test three times before
becoming eligible for express testing sessions).
[0134] In some instances, however, in some examples, a same user
may not enjoy the same eligibility reciprocity/recognition when
trying a test that is radically different from the nasal swab-based
test, such as a test where blood sample collection is required. For
example, a user's express testing session eligibility score may be
associated with a specific test (e.g., a nose-swab), a specific
type of test (e.g., swab-based, whether nose or mouth, or minimally
invasive tests), or with all tests available on the platform. In
some embodiments, the user has the option whether to enter an
express testing session or a standard testing session when taking a
test, such that a qualified user has the opportunity to choose the
most convenient and comfortable session for them.
[0135] In some cases, a user's express testing session eligibility
can be revoked for testing infractions (e.g., performing one or
more steps incorrectly, trying to rig the test, submitting
fraudulent test results, etc.). This can be done to maintain the
integrity of the platform as a whole. Accordingly, even in express
testing sessions, it can be important to have a level of oversight
and/or verification, which can be provided live (concurrent with
the testing session) or after the fact (by, for example, reviewing
recording, photos, or other data collected during the testing
session). Moreover, the oversight and/or verification can be
provided by live (e.g., proctor-based) or artificial intelligence-
or machine learning-based review.
[0136] For implementations in which a score is generated for each
user, a given user's score may be negatively impacted for testing
infractions, which could lead to the user's express testing
eligibility being revoked (e.g., as the score drops below a
predetermined threshold value). More severe infractions can more
negatively impact a user's score. Additionally or alternatively, a
duration of the revocation could, in some examples, vary based on
the severity or nature of the infraction, the user's history of
infractions (e.g., a three strikes and you're out type policy),
etc. As an example, a user who attempts to submit fraudulent test
results may have their express testing eligibility (or even their
standard testing eligibility) permanently revoked, while a user who
forgets to wash their hands before taking a test may only have
their express testing eligibility temporarily suspended (e.g., the
user may be required to participate in the standard proctoring
session the next time they take a test using the platform, but may
regain eligibility immediately thereafter). In some instances, the
user may be notified of the reasons associated with loss of express
eligibility (or a decrease in their user score) and given
opportunities to remediate the cause of the infractions. For
implementations in which a score is generated for each user, the
extent to which a user's score is negatively impacted by testing
infractions may vary based on such factors as type and severity of
the infraction.
[0137] In some embodiments, users who are already established as
eligible for express session testing may be required to participate
in the standard proctoring session periodically, even in cases
where no testing infractions have incurred. For example, users that
would otherwise be eligible for express testing session may be
required to participate in the standard proctoring session the next
time they take a test using the platform if, for example, the test
kit has changed since the last time they took the test (e.g., the
packaging has changed, the shape/design of items in the test kit
have changed, etc.). As another example, users that would otherwise
be eligible for express testing session may be required to
participate in the standard proctoring session the next time they
take a test using the platform if the testing procedure and/or FDA
requirements have changed since the last time they took the test
(e.g., users were previously required to add six drops of reagent
solution to a test strip, but are now required to add eight drops
of reagent to the test strip for enhanced accuracy). As another
example, users that would otherwise be eligible for express testing
session may be required to participate in the standard proctoring
session the next time they take a test using the platform if the
proctoring session protocols have changed since the last time they
took the test (e.g., users were previously asked to hold the
testing materials up to the camera on their laptop to show the
proctor their results, but are now required to instead leave the
testing materials on the table, snap a photo of the testing
materials on their smartphone, and submit the photo to the proctor
through a downloaded or web-based version of an application on
their smartphone).
[0138] Additionally or alternatively, users that would otherwise be
eligible for express testing session may be required to participate
in the standard proctoring session periodically or randomly to
ensure eligibility for express testing.
[0139] Although generally having been described as a binary system
of express testing sessions and standardized testing sessions, this
need not be the case in all embodiments. For example, express
testing may involve modification or expedition or one or more of
the steps of a standardized testing session. That is, in some
embodiments, hybrid testing sessions may be provided that are
tailored to the user's level of test-taking experience on a
step-by-step basis. Referring once again to the example described
above in which users were previously required to add six drops of
reagent solution to a test strip, but are now required to add eight
drops of reagent to the test strip for enhanced accuracy, in some
embodiments, the proctor may only provide the "standard" proctoring
experience for the step of the test in which the user is required
to add the reagent solution to the test strip, and may otherwise
provide an express proctoring experience for the other steps of the
test (which have not changed). As another example, an express
testing experience can be provided for simpler steps, while a
standard, more involved testing experience can be provided for more
complex or critical steps. In some embodiments in which an express
testing session includes both steps that are not and steps that are
directly monitored by a live proctor, the system may be configured
to provide a cue (e.g., a visual or audio cue) to identify or
distinguish between these steps. For example, when a user arrives
at a step that requires proctor involvement, the user may be
alerted (via the cue) to wait for proctor engagement.
[0140] In some embodiments, a user that has qualified for express
testing may be given a "badge" or other indicator that appears next
to their username when they become eligible for express testing
sessions. In some cases, one set of proctors give standard testing
sessions and another set of proctors give express testing sessions.
In other cases, proctors may give both standard and express testing
sessions simultaneously. In these cases, a badge or visual
indicator may help visually distinguish express users from standard
users. Additionally, in some embodiments, upon qualification for
express testing (or upon disqualification), the user is notified of
the change in status. Such notification can occur, for example,
during a testing session, after a testing session, or at the start
of a subsequent testing session.
[0141] FIG. 26 illustrates an example flowchart for providing
standard testing sessions and express testing sessions according to
some embodiments described herein. At 2602, a testing session is
initiated. Initiation of the testing session can be begun by a
user, for example, when a user creates or logs into their user
account and selects to initiate a test. At 2604, the system,
platform, or a proctor may make a determination of the user's
eligibility for participation in an express testing session. As
described above, this determination may be based on a number of
factors using a score-based approach. For example, in some
embodiments, one or more scores generated for the user may be
evaluated against one or more thresholds to determine the user's
eligibility at 2604. If it is determined that the user is eligible
for participating in an express testing session, at 2606, the user
is presented with options to participate in either an express
testing session or a standard testing session. In some embodiments,
this step can be omitted and the user can be taken to an express
testing session upon determination of qualification. If the user
elects to participate in an express testing session, at 2608, the
user is provided an express testing session. As described above, in
certain scenarios, the user may be removed from an express testing
session, for example, if it is determined that more direct proctor
supervision is needed (either by the system, a proctor, or the
system). In such cases, as indicated by the arrow extending between
2608 and 2610, the user may transition from an express testing
session to a standard testing session midtest. As noted above, such
express testing session, may involve less, little, or no proctor
engagement or involvement when compared with a standard testing
session. If the user that has been determined to be eligible for
express testing elects to proceed with a standard testing session,
at 2610, the user is provided with a standard testing session.
Returning to 2604, if it is determined that the user is not
eligible for participation in an express testing session, at 2610,
the user is provided with a standard testing session. From 2608 (an
express testing session) or 2610 (a standard testing session),
during or upon completion of the testing session the user is
evaluated and/or verified at 2612. Evaluation or verification may
provide data that can be used to determine future eligibility for
express testing. At 2614, such data can be saved for future use,
such that it can be used at 2604 when a subsequent test is
initiated to determine eligibility for express testing.
User-Proctor Matching
[0142] As described previously, the testing platform described
herein can be configured to allow for a plurality of users to
perform remote health and diagnostic testing under the supervision
of one or more proctors. As users access the platform, they can be
matched with certain proctors based on various criteria selected to
improve the users' testing experience and/or to improve the
efficacy of the proctors. In some embodiments, users accessing the
platform are placed in a user pool and proctors accessing the
platform are placed in a proctor pool. Various criteria can be
determined for each of the users and for each of the proctors.
These criteria can then be analyzed to match or assign users to
certain proctors. For example, such criteria can be evaluated at
116 of FIG. 1 and/or at 308 of FIG. 3 (described above) in order to
match or assign users to proctors.
[0143] Users may be matched with or assigned to proctors based at
least in part on one or more of a variety of different factors.
Such factors may include, for example, the languages spoken by the
users and the proctors, user disabilities and/or special needs,
user and proctor location, types of tests to be taken or
administered, a user's level of technical proficiency, proctor
availability, strength of network connection, and/or a level of
testing, verification, or scrutiny desired or required.
[0144] For example, users may be matched or assigned to a proctor
based on a language spoken by the user. The testing platform may be
provided in multiple languages and available all over the world.
Accordingly, users accessing the platform may speak a variety of
different languages. To facilitate testing, proctors may be
provided in languages that correspond to the languages of the user.
When an English-speaking user accesses the platform, they may be
assigned to an English-speaking proctor. When a Spanish speaking
user accesses the platform, they may be assigned to a Spanish
speaking proctor. This can ensure that the proctored testing
session can run as smoothly as possible as communication barriers
between the users and the proctors can be reduced.
[0145] In some embodiments, the language desired by the user for
the proctored testing session may be indicated by the user. For
example, when accessing the platform, the user may create a user
profile in which the user's language preference is indicated. In
some embodiments, multi-lingual users may indicate that they can
speak more than one language and may even indicate a proficiency
for each language. When matching such users to proctors, each
language and proficiency may be evaluated in view of the available
proctors in order to find a matching proctor as quickly as
possible. For example, if a user indicates that he or she is a
native Spanish speaker but is also fluent in English, the platform
may first check to see whether a Spanish speaking proctor is
available. If a Spanish speaking proctor is available, the user may
be matched to the proctor. If a Spanish speaking proctor is not
available, the platform may then check whether an English-speaking
proctor is available, and if so, match the user with the
English-speaking proctor.
[0146] In some embodiments, the platform may attempt to
automatically determine the user's language. For example, the
platform may analyze the user's network connection (e.g., the
user's IP address) in an effort to determine where the user is
geographically located. If, for example, the user's IP address is
associated with a typically English-speaking geographical location,
the user may be initially presented with an English-speaking
proctor. If the user's IP address is associated with a typically
Spanish speaking geographical location, the user may be initially
presented with a Spanish speaking proctor. Other factors may also
be analyzed in an effort to automatically determine the user's
language. For example, an estimate of the user's language may be
made based on a top-level domain associated with the testing
platform's website accessed by the user. For example, if a user
accesses the testing platform at www.[testingplatform].mx (.mx
being the top-level domain associated with Mexico), the testing
platform may make an initial determination that the user likely
speaks Spanish. In such cases where the platform attempts to
automatically determine the user's language, the user may be given
the option to change to a more preferred language in the event that
the automatically determined language is incorrect.
[0147] Proctors may also be associated with profiles that provide
information about the proctors that is used to match the proctors
to the users. A proctor profile can include information about which
languages are spoken by each proctor as well as a proficiency score
for each language. In some embodiments, proctors can specify which
languages they speak as well as their proficiency in each language.
In some embodiments, proctors may be required to take language
tests to ensure that they are sufficiently proficient to provide a
proctored test in a given language. In some embodiments, the
platform may analyze proctor performance and adjust a proctors
proficiency score for each spoken language. For example, a proctor
may indicate that he or she is fluent in English and Spanish. The
platform may thus assign both English speaking users and Spanish
speaking users to the proctor. The platform may analyze the
proctor's proficiency in providing proctored testing sessions in
English and Spanish. For example, the platform may track an average
testing session length for both the English and Spanish sessions.
Upon determination that the proctor takes sufficiently longer to
provide a proctored testing session in one language when compared
to the other, the platform may lower the user's proficiency score
for the slower session language. Additionally or alternatively, the
platform may evaluate testing accuracy for each of the proctor's
spoken languages. For example, if it is determined that tests
administered by the proctor in Spanish generally are more accurate
than tests administered by the proctor in English, the platform may
assign more Spanish speaking users to the proctor. As a result, the
platform may assign more users who speak the proctor's faster
language to the proctor in the future. In some embodiments, in
addition to or in place of comparing the proctor's proficiency
against itself (e.g., comparing the proctor's English proficiency
against his or her Spanish proficiency), the platform may also
compare the proctor's proficiency against that of other proctors.
In this way, the platform can dynamically balance matching users to
proctors in the most efficient manner.
[0148] Another factor that may be considered by the platform in
matching or assigning users to proctors can be disabilities or
special needs of the users. For various reasons, some users may
require special accommodations in order to take a test. The
platform can consider the users' needs and provide the user with a
proctor equipped to provide the necessary accommodations. As one
example, a user that is hard of hearing or deaf can be assigned to
a proctor that is proficient in sign language or to a proctor that
is proficient in communicated with the user through text. Users
accessing the platform may provide information about any special
needs or disabilities as well as desired or necessary
accommodations that must be made to facilitate the testing session.
For example, such information can be entered during creation of the
user's profile or account or gathered during a pre-qualification
survey, for example as described at 104 and 106 of FIG. 1.
Similarly, proctor profiles can store information about skills or
accommodations that a proctor can provide. Similar to the proctor
language information described above, a proctor's ability to
accommodate a disability or special need can be evaluated by the
platform. For example, testing session duration and/or accuracy of
test results can be analyzed and used to rebalance proctor
assignment over time such that that proctors can be assigned and
matched to users in a manner that maximizes the overall efficiency
of the system.
[0149] In some embodiments, the platform may match users to
proctors based on the location and/or time zone of the users and
proctors. This may improve the testing experience by matching users
to proctors that are close to them geographically or in the same
time zone.
[0150] In some embodiments, proctors and users can be matched based
on the type of test to be taken. As noted above, the platform may
be configured to allow for a wide variety of remote health tests or
other diagnostics. While users accessing the platform may generally
do so in order to take a specific kind of test, proctors may be
able to administer more than one type of test. For example, a
proctor may be able to provide a proctored testing session for a
first type of test and also to provide a proctored testing session
for a second type of test. Proctor profiles may include a list of
each type of proctored testing session that can be provided by a
given proctor. In some embodiments, proctors may need to take
specific training and/or receive certain verifications to provide
different types of proctored testing sessions.
[0151] In some embodiments, proctors that are certified or
otherwise able to provide different types of proctored testing
sessions can be evaluated by the platform such that users are
assigned to the proctor in an efficient manner. For example, if
both a proctor A and a proctor B are capable of administering a
first type of proctored testing session and a second type of
proctored testing session, the platform may evaluate proctor A and
B's proficiency with each type of testing session and match users
accordingly. For example, the platform may determine that proctor A
provides the first type of proctored testing session more quickly
than proctor B does. The platform may then assign users taking a
test associated with the first type of proctored testing session to
proctor A and assign users taking a test associated with the second
type of proctored testing session to proctor B.
[0152] Another factor that can be considered by the platform in
assigning users to proctors may be the users' technical ability or
proficiency. As an example, an older user may not be as technically
proficient as a younger user. Certain proctors may have more
proficiency in providing proctored testing sessions to such older
users. Accordingly, the platform may assign such older users to
such proctors. In some embodiments, the users themselves may
provide an indication of their technical proficiency. For example,
during user account creation or a pre-qualification survey, the
user may input a technical proficiency score or a comfort score
associated with using the remote testing platform. In some
embodiments, the platform may make a determination about a user's
technical proficiency based factors observable by the system. For
example, the system may make a determination about a user's
technical proficiency based on an amount of time take by the user
to set up his or her account or to complete the pre-qualification
survey. As another example, the platform may make a determination
about the user's technical proficiency based on the user's age or
other factors. In some embodiments, the system may automatically
administer a short test to the user to determine technical
proficiency, for example, by checking whether the user is able to
operate his or her webcam, microphone, and speakers.
[0153] As before, the platform may continually or periodically
evaluate proctor proficiency in providing proctored testing
sessions to less technically proficient users. For example, the
platform may analyze elapsed session times or test result accuracy
for various proctors and assign less technically proficient users
to proctors that can most efficiently and accurately administer
tests to such users.
[0154] The platform may also consider the strength of users' and
proctors' network connections in determining how to assign and
match the users and proctors. For example, the platform may
evaluate or determine an internet speed, latency, and/or
reliability of the network connection for each user and proctor.
This information can be used to match proctors and users in a
manner that ensures that a stable connection between a user and
proctor can be maintained during a testing session.
[0155] In some embodiments, the platform may also consider a level
of testing verification or scrutiny that is required or desired in
determining how to assign and match users to proctors. For example,
in some instances, a certain level of proctor scrutiny or
involvement may be required to complete and validate a test result.
For example, government or other regulatory bodies may require
certain steps to be completed in order to validate a test. In such
cases, users can be matched with proctors that are capable of
providing the needed level or scrutiny. In other example, users may
request a certain level or proctor involvement or scrutiny. For
example, a user that is generally unsure or uncomfortable with
remote testing procedures may request a more involved proctoring
session.
[0156] Accordingly, users who require or desire a proctoring
session with additional verification measures or a higher level of
testing scrutiny may be matched with proctors who conduct
one-on-one proctoring sessions and/or can provide additional
verification services. As one example, users who need verified
passes in order to comply with CDC rules or laws may be matched
with proctors capable of providing such services. As another
example, in some embodiments, users may pay for a premium
membership/service for the platform that automatically communicates
the users' test results to user-specified entities. For example,
the platform can provide users with a with a TSA Pre-Check-like
pass service where the user provides additional verification
information and performs additional verification processes with the
proctor in exchange for a pass that allows users to "skip the line"
or otherwise more seamlessly travel or access various venues and
other locations.
[0157] The system may also consider proctor availability in
matching users and proctors. As noted above, the platform may
consider various factors in matching users and proctors to improve
the efficiency and accuracy of the platform. In some embodiments,
however, the most efficient proctors may not be available.
Accordingly, the platform can further consider proctor
availability. For example, in some embodiments, it may be faster to
assign a user to a less proficient proctor with a shorter wait
time, rather than assigning the user to more proficient proctor
with a longer wait time.
[0158] The platform may dynamically match proctors and users upon
consideration of one or more of the factors described above as well
as others. Further, the platform may continually or periodically
evaluate the efficiency and accuracy of proctors based on each of
these factors and use this information to continually rebalance and
recalibrate the platform to maximize efficiency. For example, the
platform may adjust how users are assigned to proctors to reduce
testing session times and/or improve testing session accuracy by
assigning proctors to users in the most efficient manner.
[0159] Additionally, the order in which users are placed in queues
for meeting with proctors may be determined based at least in part
on one or more of a variety of factors. As noted above, in some
instances, a user may be placed into a waiting room while waiting
for a proctor to be assigned or while waiting for an assigned
proctor to become available (see, for example, FIG. 9, which is
described above). The order in which users are matched to proctors
and/or assigned to available proctors may also be considered by the
system. For example, in some embodiments, a level of testing
urgency or priority associated with each of the various users that
are to meet with proctors may be considered. The level of testing
urgency or priority that is associated with a given user may be a
function of one or more of a variety of parameters. These factors
may include, for example, how soon the user will be boarding a
flight, whether the user is crossing a state or international
boarder, how at-risk the user may be, how symptomatic the user may
be, the user's current test pass status, the user's occupation or
other status, the time spent waiting in queue, and/or a user's
membership tier associated with the user platform, among
others.
[0160] For example, a user that is about to board a flight or
travel across state lines or other boarders may be given an
advantageous place in the queue in an effort to assure that the
travel can be completed. As another example, a more at-risk user
may be given an advantageous place in the queue to minimize his or
wait time. An at-risk user may be one that has a pre-existing
condition or is elderly. For example, the elderly and people with
certain health conditions may be placed ahead of others in the
queue in order to ensure that they can be tested as soon as
possible. As another example, a more symptomatic user may be given
an advantageous place in the queue. People who are exhibiting
worrisome symptoms may be placed ahead of others in the queue so
that they can receive the medical attention they might need sooner.
This can improve health outcomes for the particular patient as well
as minimize the spread of a contagious disease to others.
[0161] A user's place in queue may be assigned in part based upon
whether or not the user has a test pass that is currently valid
and/or the amount of time remaining until expiration of a user's
current test pass. For example, people who do not have test passes
that are currently valid and people who have test passes that will
be expiring shortly may be placed ahead of others in the queue. The
user's occupation or other status may also be considered in
determining queue placement. For example, doctors or medical
personnel may be placed ahead of others in the queue. Additionally,
time spent waiting in queue may also be considered. For example,
users who have not been waiting for very long may be placed behind
users in the queue who have been waiting for a while. In some
embodiments, the platform may provide premium memberships or
services that can affect a user's placement in the queue. For
example, users that pay for a premium membership or service may be
placed ahead of others in the queue.
[0162] The user-proctor matching and user queuing techniques and
features described above have generally been presented in the
context of assigning users to proctors for proctored based testing
sessions. However, in some embodiments, different proctors may be
provided for different portions of a proctored testing session.
Accordingly, the user-proctor matching and user queuing techniques
and features described above can be implemented at different stages
in proctored testing session along the process. For example, a user
may be shifted to different proctors throughout a test, with
different proctors providing different stages or steps in the
process. Proctors can be evaluated for proficiency and accuracy in
providing the different stages of the tests (in some embodiments,
for different types of users), and users and proctors can be
matched accordingly.
[0163] In some embodiments, some phases or steps in a testing
process may require more direct supervision, while other stages may
require less supervision. In some embodiments, during stages that
require more direct supervision a lower ratio of proctors to users
may be used, while in stages that require less supervision a higher
ratio or proctors to users may be used. Proctors can be evaluated
to determine whether they are more proficient in proctoring the
steps that involve supervision of a higher number of users or in
proctoring the steps that involve supervision of a lower number of
users, and the platform may match users and proctors
accordingly.
[0164] FIG. 27 provides a flowchart of an example process that can
be implemented in the platform for matching users to proctors and
improving the efficiency and accuracy of the platform. As shown in
FIG. 27, at 2702, a user accesses the platform. The user may access
the platform remotely over a network using a user device as
described above. At 2704, information regarding the user may be
determined and stored in a profile associated with the user. User
information may be determined, for example, during an account
creation or pre-qualification survey step in which the user
responds to one or more prompts to provide information about the
user. In some embodiments, the platform may determine information
about the user based on information available to the platform, such
as information about the user's network connection. Information
about the user may include, for example, information about
languages spoken, disabilities or accommodations needed or
requested, location and/or time zone, type of test to be taken, an
assessment of the user's technical proficiency, information about
the user's network connection (e.g., speed, latency, reliability,
etc.), and/or a desired or required level of testing scrutiny,
among other types of information.
[0165] At 2706, proctors access the platform. The proctors may
access the platform remotely over a network using a proctor device
as described above. At 2708, information regarding the proctor may
be determined and stored in a profile associated with the proctor.
In some embodiments, proctor profile information is input by the
proctor. In some embodiments, proctor profile information is
determined by the platform, for example, based on previous
proctored testing sessions provided by the proctor. In some
embodiments, the information about the proctor may include, for
example, information about languages spoken, disability
accommodations the proctor can provide, location and/or time zone,
types of test to be administered, and/or information about the
proctor's network connection (e.g., speed, latency, reliability,
etc.), among other types of information.
[0166] At 2710, users and proctors are matched for proctored
testing sessions based on an analysis of one or more matching
criteria by the platform. For example, the platform may consider
the information stored in the user and proctor profiles and match
users to proctors in a manner that maximizes the efficiency of the
system as described above. At 2712, a proctored testing session is
provided to the user based on the matching established at 2710. At
2714, the efficiency and/or accuracy of the proctored testing
session can be analyzed by the platform and used to update the user
profile, at 2716, and/or the proctor profile at 2718. For example,
if the testing session takes longer than expected or desired, the
proctor profile may be updated such that the proctor will not be
matched with that type of user in the future. In this way, the
platform can continually evaluate proctors and users and match them
in a manner that maximizes the efficiency of the system.
Test Integrity and Verification
[0167] In some embodiments, during a remote testing procedure,
various steps can be implemented before, during, and after the test
in order to ensure test integrity and verify the result of the
test. For example, before the test is taken, it can be desirable to
verify the user's identify and to verify that the test kit is valid
(e.g., to verify that the test kit is one that has been purchased
or otherwise obtained through an official channel, has not expired,
and has not been previously used). During the test, it can be
desirable to verify that any sample obtained is actually obtained
from the previously verified user and that all test instructions
and procedures are followed correctly. Finally, after the test, it
can be desirable to ensure that the test result is obtained from
the previously verified test kit and to ensure that the test result
is interpreted correctly.
[0168] As noted above, it can be important to verify the user's
identity before the test is taken. This can be because it ensures
that the results will be attributed to the correct person.
Verifying the user's identity is particularly important in cases of
remote testing as the person being tested is not physically located
with the person administering the test. Thus, in many situations,
extra precaution may be advantageously taken to correctly identify
the user's identity. Verification of the user's identity can be
accomplished in several ways. For example, the user can be asked to
upload a copy of an official identification (e.g., a driver's
license or passport) as part of an account creation or
pre-qualification step. In some embodiments, the user may be asked
to show the official identification to the proctor during the
testing session. During the testing session, the proctor can then
compare the uploaded or shown identification to the person's
appearance in the video feed. In this way the proctor can verify
the user's identity by comparing a live (or other) video feed of
the user to an identification card associated with the user. In
some embodiments, once the user's identity is verified, the user's
identity can be associated with the user's account for future
tests. For example, after verification, future verifications may be
automated with face matching technology.
[0169] In another example, user identification can be achieved
using biometrics. For example, in some embodiments, a user
accessing the platform may be given the option to perform a
biometric initialization, in which the user goes to a physical
location where their fingerprint or a unique segment of DNA can be
sampled and stored. Thereafter, every test taken can sample their
fingerprint or DNA to verify identity. This may also be automated.
In other embodiments, biometrics may be performed using biometric
features of the user's device. For example, many smartphones today
are capable of taking a user's fingerprint or recognizing a user's
face. These features may be used to verify the user's identity in
some embodiments.
[0170] In addition to verifying the user's identity, the test or
test kit that will be used during the test may be verified as well.
This can be important because it ensures that the test results are
scientifically valid and can be trusted. Again, this can be
particularly important in the case of remote testing where the user
is not physically located with the person administering the test.
In one embodiment, the test or test kit can be provided with a
unique ID (e.g., a UID or serial number) assigned during
manufacture, which can be queried when the test is taken. This can
take the form of a printed string of characters, barcode/QR code,
NFC/RFID tag, or other. This code may either explicitly encode
information associated with the test (such as a test identifier,
test expiration date, batch/lot codes, indication of whether this
number has been used for a test or not) or it may encode a link to
a database entry that includes such information. Prior to beginning
the test, the code may be scanned to verify the test kit. If
anything is amiss, the test does not proceed and the user may be
instructed to obtain a new test kit. In some embodiments, it may be
preferable to provide the unique ID in a non-human readable manner.
This may provide an advantage in that they are harder to
misrepresent. A visible code could be duplicated and used on an
expired test, for example.
[0171] During a test, a sample may be collected from the user, for
example, using the test kit. To ensure the integrity of the test,
steps may be taken to ensure that the sample is actually collected
from the same user whose identity was verified before beginning the
test. Again, this can be especially important in the case of remote
tests since the user is not physically located with the person
administering the test. It can be important to ensure that a user
does not swap in a sample obtained from another user when
performing the test. Various mechanisms for verifying that the
sample is collected from the previously verified user are possible.
For example, during a proctored testing session, the proctor (or an
automated system) can observe the sample collection process. For
example, in the case of a nasal swab test, the proctor or the
automated system can observe the user performing the swab
procedure. Such observation can be performed live (e.g., over a
live video connection) or through a pre-recorded video. In either
event, it may be important that all sample collection materials
remain in view of the camera at all times. This would prevent a
user from swabbing his or her nose and then switching out the swab
with another that has been used by a different person.
Additionally, it may be beneficial to positively identify the user
during the collection process. This can be accomplished by, for
example, checking the user's identity immediately before the sample
collection process.
[0172] During the test, it is also important to ensure that all
test instructions and procedures are followed correctly. This can
ensure the accuracy and validity of the test results. Similar to
verifying that the sample is obtained from the correct user,
ensuring that all test instructions and procedures are followed
correctly can be accomplished by directly viewing the testing
procedure, either over a live video feed or be watching a recording
of the testing process. In some embodiments, such observation is
provided by a live proctor. In some embodiments, such observation
is provided through an automated system (e.g., a computer system
that is configured analyze live or pre-recorded video). In the case
of a swab, for example, as shown in FIG. 28, the swab can include
stripes or other markings 2802 along its length to be able to
quantify swab insertion depth in an orifice, such as a nostril. In
this manner, a proctor can easily observe that the swab is inserted
to a sufficient depth. Additionally, the automated system can be
configured to recognize the stripes or markings 2802 on the swabs
in the video to automate determination of proper insertion depth.
In some embodiment, in which test a test must sit for a certain
amount of time (e.g., dwell example), the user can be instructed to
place the test on a suitable surface in view of the camera for an
appropriate amount of time. The proctor or system can observe that
the test is placed on the appropriate surface and remains in view
during the entire dwell length. In the case of a nasal swab
COVID-19 test, for example, an appropriate amount of liquid may
need to be added to a testing card, a nasal swab may need to be
inserted into the nostril to a sufficient depth, the swab must then
be correctly applied to the liquid on the card, and the card must
be left undisturbed on a flat surface for at least fifteen minutes.
Each of these steps can be observed and verified by a proctor
and/or an automated system to ensure the integrity of the test.
[0173] Additionally, it is important to ensure that submitted test
results actually come from the originally verified test or test
kit. This can ensure test continuity, making sure that the same
test is used throughout the test (e.g., that the test that was
verified is the one for which results are obtained). Otherwise,
tests could be exchanged during the process, leading to improper
results. In some embodiments, this can be accomplished by
reverifying the test or test kit throughout the testing procedure.
For example, the method that was used previously to determine the
test kit was valid (e.g., scanning the unique ID of the test kit)
can be repeated to ensure the UID/serial number are the same. In
some embodiments, the test kits can be designed such that the test
such that the results are reported in a manner that includes the
UID/serial number, such as in a custom visible code (barcode, QR
code, etc.) or NFC/RFID, so that when the results are read, the UID
can be verified. For example, in some embodiments, test results are
verified by viewing strips that appear on a test card. The test
card can include the unique ID of the test kit near the area at
which the strips will appear such that a view of the strips also
includes a view of the unique ID.
[0174] Finally, it can also be important to ensure that the test
results are interpreted correctly. As described previously, in some
embodiments, a proctor interprets the test results by viewing
strips that appear on a test card, for example, as described above
with reference to FIG. 12. In some embodiments, an automated system
may interpret the test results. In some embodiments, the test
results can be reviewed and verified by another proctor or
automated system to provide a second layer of verification.
Test Pass
[0175] A test pass can be provided and associated with the platform
that is used to identify the user and communicate the user's test
results. In some embodiments, the test pass can be provided at
and/or used to verify a user's identity at a point of care, such as
the location where the test is taken (e.g., a medical facility, a
home, a hotel, an airport, a etc.), and also used to verify the
user's test results at a point of verification (e.g., a location
where the user's results are checked (such as the airport, a hotel,
a place of employment, etc.). In some embodiments, the point of
care and the point of verification may be different. For example, a
user may take the test at his or her home and receive the test pass
and then can use the test pass to verify his or her results at the
airport. In some embodiments, the point of care and the point of
verification may be the same. For example, a user desiring to board
a flight at an airport can take a test and receive a test pass at
the airport and then use that pass to verify the results and board
a flight.
[0176] In some embodiments, the test pass can be configured to
perform one or more of several functions. For example, the test
pass can include proof of the user's identity. For example, in FIG.
5, the test pass includes personal information 502. The personal
information can include the user's name and other identifying
information such as photo or other biometric information. The test
pass can be configured to show this information to prove the user's
identity at a point of care (e.g., at medical facility or home at
which the test is taken) and at point of verification (e.g., at an
airport, stadium, etc., where the test result is checked). In some
embodiments, the test pass includes a positive identifier that
checks or verifies the user's identity against a driver's license,
passport, or other verifiable biometric data. In preferred
embodiments, identity verification using the test pass should be
simple and quick. Additionally, the test pass should be configured
such that the results reported by the pass should be able to be
trusted at point of verification. For example, the test pass can
ensure that results stored on the pass were gathered using an
FDA-approved method. The test pass can also be configured for
information security. For example, the test pass can provide the
user with a mechanism for controlling who accesses their data and
when.
[0177] A test pass can be provided in either a physical or virtual
manner. For example, a physical test pass may comprise
forgery-resistant card provided by the test pass issuer that
includes user's name and photo for identification. The physical
test pass may also include a barcode, QR code, NFC chip, contact
chip, alphanumeric code, or other unique identifier that will
access test results from a secure database when scanned. An example
is shown in FIG. 5, described above. A virtual test pass may be
available over a computer network or through an application. When
accessed, it can display a scannable code or use NFC or other means
for quick communication at point of verification. In some
embodiments, the test pass can be linked to a user's existing ID.
For example, test results can be linked to an existing form of ID
by name and unique number (driver's license number, passport
number, etc.). The user must have this ID at point of care and
point of verification, where their name and unique number are used
to access results from a secure database.
[0178] In some embodiments, each user is provided with a new
physical or virtual test pass each time they complete a test. For
example, a user may be provided with a new physical test pass
indicating the most recent test result, or the user may be provided
with a virtual test pass indicating the most recent test result. In
other embodiments, in which the user already has a test pass, upon
completion of a new test, the existing test pass can be updated to
include the most recent result. For example, a machine-readable
code on a physical or virtual test pass may be linked to the newest
test result.
[0179] In some embodiments of a virtual test pass, the user's ID
may be verified each time that the virtual test pass is displayed.
For example, the user may be required to be biometrically
authenticated each time the virtual test pass is to be displayed.
As one example, the user may use face recognition on his or her
phone in order to verify his or her identity before the virtual
test pass can be displayed.
Test Continuity
[0180] As described above, the remote testing platform described
herein can connect remotely located users with proctors over a
network such as the internet. Problems may arise if either the
users or the proctors experience poor network connectivity. The
platform, however, may implement certain mechanisms and procedures
to facilitate remote testing even in circumstances of poor network
connectivity. For example, if either the proctor or the user
experiences connectivity issues during the proctoring session, the
proctoring session may be prematurely terminated, which can be
inconvenient for users. However, the platform can be adapted to
detect a loss of connection and/or poor connection, and take steps
to record images or video of the user and test kit so that testing
and proctoring can be resumed if and when connectivity is
restored.
[0181] The platform may evaluate the strength of the user's network
connection. In response to determining that the user's connection
has dropped out or slowed down dramatically, the platform may
perform one or more operations to begin recording and storing image
or video data to a local location (e.g., on the user's hard drive).
For example, the user may be participating in a live proctored
testing session in which they are actively connected to a live
proctor over video. During the session, the platform can monitor
the user's network connection. If certain threshold criteria are
met, indicating that the user's network connection is unstable or
insufficient, the platform may initiate a recording of the user's
session. In some embodiments, detection of a network connectivity
issue may trigger high full frame rate resolution recording. In
some embodiments, the recording is initiated and stored on the
user's local machine, such that a network connection is not
required for the recording. Depending on the type of test being
performed and/or the level of proctor involvement necessary, the
testing session may be able to continue, even though the user has
lost his or her network connection to the proctor. For example, the
user may be provided with prerecorded or written instructions for
completing the testing session. Upon regaining connectivity, the
recorded data may be uploaded to the platform and provided for
proctor (or automated review). For example, once network
connectivity is restored, the user's video may be uploaded to the
platform where it can be reviewed by a proctor (or an automated
system) to determine whether all testing steps were accurately
followed. If all testing steps can be verified, the user's test
result can also be verified. If one or more of the testing steps
cannot be verified, the user may need to redo the test.
[0182] In addition to monitoring the user's network connection, the
platform may also monitor the proctors' network connection. If a
proctor's network connection is determined to be unstable or slow,
the platform may perform one or more operations to ensure or
facilitate test continuity for users connected to that proctor. For
example, the platform may begin recording and storing user image or
video data to cloud storage such that the proctor may review the
image or video data when his or her network connection is restored.
In some embodiments, detection of a network connectivity issue may
trigger high full frame rate resolution recording. In some
embodiments, the platform may send the recorded image or video data
to another proctor or an automated system for review such that the
user can continue the proctored testing session without delay. For
example, the image or video data may be reviewed (in real-time)
using an automated system or by another available proctor. When the
original proctor regains network connectivity, in some embodiments,
the proctor may be given access to the recorded data for review. In
some embodiments, upon determining that a proctor's network
connection is unstable, slow, or otherwise not working, one or more
users connected to that proctor may be redirected to other
proctors. In some embodiments, a backup proctor may be connected to
the testing session such that the backup proctor can seamlessly
take over in the event that the initial proctor becomes
unavailable.
[0183] In the event of network connectivity issues (either on the
user end or the proctor end), the platform may display messages to
the user or the proctor indicating the potential issue and the
steps being taken to ensure or facilitate testing continuity. For
example, the user may be provided with a notification regarding the
connectivity issues, instructions on how to proceed, and a phone
number that can be used to contact customer support, etc.
[0184] FIG. 29 illustrates an example method for improving or
maintaining test continuity in the case of network connection
issues. When a user begins a test, the user may be asked at 2902
for their permission to record the testing session. In some
embodiments, this may be a requirement for using the platform. At
2904, the proctored testing session begins. This can include
establishing a live video link between the user and a proctor. At
2906, the platform monitors user's and the proctor's network
connection. For example, a connection observer can run regularly to
monitor the connection status. In the event that no network
connectivity issues are detected, the testing session can be
completed as normal. In the event that network connectivity issues
are detected, at 2908, the platform may save the test state and/or
pause the test. At 2910, a recording of the testing session may be
initialized. At 2912, the recording and/or the test state can be
stored. Storage can occur locally (e.g., on the user's machine) in
the event that the user has lost network connectivity or storage
can occur in the cloud if such storage medium is currently
reachable.
[0185] At 2914, reconnect procedures may attempt to reestablish
connectivity between the user and the platform. For example, the
platform may attempt to reconnect the user for a predetermined
amount of time (also referred to herein as the "reconnect window").
At 2916, if the user cannot be reconnected, the platform moves to
2918 at which the platform evaluates whether the reconnect window
has expired. If it has not, the platform moves back to 2914. If the
reconnect window has expired, the platform moves to 2920, at which
it determines whether proctorless completion of the test is
possible. Proctorless completion may be possible in some
circumstances depending on the type of test and/or the stage of the
test at which connectivity was lost. If proctorless completion is
not possible, the user may be informed at 2922 that the test cannot
be completed. The user will need to retest or resume the test once
network connectivity is reestablished. If proctorless testing is
possible, the user may be informed of the switch to proctorless
mode at 2924. At 2934, the saved test state and/or recorded video
can be loaded from the server and analyzed. At 2936, the test can
be resumed from the saved state and completed in proctorless
mode.
[0186] Returning to 2916, if the platform determines that the user
is connected, the platform may, at 2926, determine whether the
original proctor is connected. If the original proctor is
connected, the user and proctor can be reconnected and testing can
resume as normal. If the original proctor is not connected, at
2930, the user may enter a waiting room where a new proctor can be
assigned. At 2932, the new proctor can accept the request and the
test can be resumed with the new proctor.
Augmented Reality (AR) Based Testing Guidance
[0187] In some embodiments, the platform may provide augmented
reality (AR) based testing guidance to users and/or proctors.
Because users and proctors generally interact with the platform
using devices that include displays, AR-based testing guidance can
be overlaid onto the displays to facilitate testing and/or
proctoring. For example, graphics can be overlaid onto a live video
feed of the test kit (as provided by a camera of the user's device)
to help the user properly open, set up, utilize, and/or dispose of
the test kit. As a more specific example, in some tests, the user
may be required to deposit drops of a solution onto a certain
portion of a test card (see, for example, FIG. 30C, described
below). The user can be instructed to position the test kit such
that it is within the view of the camera and can be viewed on the
user's screen. Guidance indicating where to deposit the drops can
be overlaid onto the user's screen to indicate where the user
should place the drops of solution. As another example, when the
user needs to access a swab within the test kit, the location of
the swab can be highlighted using AR on the user's screen.
[0188] AR-based guidance can be implemented in a variety of
different ways. FIG. 30A illustrates an example set up for
providing AR-based guidance. In the illustrated example, a user
3002 accesses the health testing and diagnostic platform using a
smartphone 3004. In this example, the smartphone 3004 includes both
forward facing and rearward facing cameras. One or both of these
cameras can be used during a testing procedure to capture images
of, for example, the user 3002 and/or a test kit 3012 used during
the testing procedure. Further, the images captured by the forward
and/or rearward facing cameras can be displayed to the user on a
display of the smartphone 3004. Moreover, AR-based guidance can be
added to the images displayed to the user to facilitate and improve
the testing experience. Examples of AR-based guidance that can be
displayed to the user are shown in FIGS. 30C and 30E, described
below.
[0189] FIG. 30A also illustrates an example set up of the user
3002, the smartphone 3004, and the test kit 3012, which may be
advantageous in some embodiments. In the illustrated example, the
user 3002 sits at a table. The test kit 3012 is also positioned on
the table in front of the user. The user's smartphone 3004 is
positioned on the table between the user 3002 and the test kit
3012. In some embodiments, the smartphone 3004 is supported by a
stand 3006, which can, for example, be a component included in the
test kit 3012. The smartphone 3004 is positioned (in some
embodiments, with the assistance of the stand 3006) such that the
user is visible within the field of view (FOV) 3008 of the
smartphone's forward-facing camera and the test kit 3012 is
positioned within the FOV 3010 of the smartphone's rearward facing
camera. Such a set up may be advantageous as it allows the user
3002 and the test kit 3012 to remain within the different FOVs of
the forward and rearward facing cameras of the smartphone 3002
during the entire testing procedure. Further, at different portions
of the procedure, the output of the frontward or rearward facing
camera can be displayed to the user and supplemented with AR-based
guidance.
[0190] For example, during one portion of the testing procedure,
the output of the rearward facing camera (e.g., FOV 3010 in which
is positioned the test kit 3012) can be displayed to the user such
that the user can view the test kit 3012 on the display of the
smartphone 3004. The display can be updated with AR-based guidance
to highlight certain areas of the test kit 3012 or items in the
test kit 3012 or overlaid with other types of instructions to aid
the user in performing the testing procedure. During another
portion of the testing procedure, the output of the frontward
facing camera (e.g., FOV 3008 in which the user 3002 is positioned)
can be displayed to the user such that the user can view his or
herself on the display of the smartphone 3004. The display can be
updated with AR-based guidance to highlight certain areas of the
user (e.g., a nostril) or overlaid with other types of instructions
to aid the user in performing the testing procedure.
[0191] In some embodiments, the set up illustrated in FIG. 30A
and/or use of the stand 3006 can facilitate setting up standard
distances between the user 3002, the user device 3004, and the test
kit 3012. In some embodiments, the system may benefit from knowing
the distances between user 3002, the user device 3004, and the test
kit 3012. For example, knowing these distances may allow the system
to more easily identify certain elements within the field of
view(s) 3008, 3012 of the cameras and/or ensure that all steps that
must be observed are accurately captured on the camera. In some
embodiments, the stand 3006 can be integrated into the test kit
box. For example, a portion of the test kit box can fold out to
provide the stand and fix the distance between the test kit and the
user device.
[0192] FIG. 30B illustrates an example in which a user scans a QR
code printed on an exterior of a test kit containing test kit
materials. In some embodiments, one or more AR features associated
with such test kit materials may be provided in response to the
system scanning the QR code. For instance, text and/or graphics
relating to the test kit materials contained within the box on
which the QR code is printed may be overlaid onto the user's screen
so as to convey one or more of the following: (i) information about
each component stored in the box (e.g., labeling and/or
highlighting various components, displaying text or graphics beside
various components, etc.); and/or (ii) information regarding the
steps that are to be taken by the user in order to take a test
using test kit materials contained within the box (e.g., graphical
and/or textual instructions presented in a manner that conveys an
order of operations, etc.). Other types of information can also be
communicated to the user using AR. Although FIG. 30B illustrates a
QR code printed on the test kit box, in some embodiments, the QR
code that is scanned may be printed on one or more of the test kit
materials (rather than the box). In some embodiments, other types
of machine-readable codes (e.g., bar codes, etc.) can be used in
addition to or in place of the illustrated QR codes. In some
embodiments, one or more computer vision techniques may be
leveraged to identify test kit materials and packaging instead of
or in addition to the aforementioned QR code scanning
techniques.
[0193] FIGS. 30C-30E illustrate several examples of AR-based
guidance that can be displayed to a user to facilitate a remote
testing procedure. The illustrated examples are not exhaustive, and
AR-based guidance can be used in many other ways as well. In the
example of FIG. 30C, the AR graphics that are overlaid on the
screen include a dropper bottle, drops of solution dripping from
the dropper bottle, and a dashed circle outlining the location
where drops are to be applied. Such AR-based guidance can be used
to illustrate to the user the location on a test card to which a
solution should be applied during a testing procedure. In FIG. 30C,
textual instructions (e.g., "6 drops," "Drop the fluid," etc.) are
also overlaid on the screen.
[0194] In some embodiments, AR-based guidance may facilitate sample
collection. For example, graphics can be overlaid onto a live video
feed of the user (as provided by a camera of the user's device) to
help the user properly collect the required biological sample from
their person. FIGS. 30D and 30E provide examples illustrating
AR-based guidance for sample collection using a nasal swab. In the
example of FIG. 30D, the AR graphics that are overlaid on the
screen include a dashed circle outlining the particular nostril of
the user into which a swab is to be inserted. In FIG. 30D, textual
instructions (e.g., "5 times," "Swab nose," etc.) are also overlaid
on the screen. In the example of FIG. 30E, the AR graphics that are
overlaid on the screen include a curved arrow indicating the
direction in which the user is supposed to swab their nostril in a
circular motion. In FIG. 30E, textual instructions (e.g., "5
times," "Swab nose," etc.) are also overlaid on the screen.
[0195] In the case of sample collection via a nasal swab, for
example, as illustrated in FIGS. 30D and 30E, images of the user's
face can be augmented with graphics to show the user which nostril
to insert the swab (FIG. 30D), the types of movements required to
properly collect the mucus sample from the nostril (FIG. 30E), the
depth to insert swab, etc. Although the figures have illustrated
examples of AR-based guidance in cases where the user device
comprises a smartphone, AR-based guidance can also be provided for
other types of user device. For example, in the case of a laptop,
the aforementioned camera might be a camera on the laptop located
above the screen. In the case of a smartphone, the aforementioned
camera might be an inward-facing camera on the front of the
smartphone above the screen. Accordingly, in some smartphone
embodiments (or other embodiments where the user device includes
both forward- and rearward-facing cameras) some steps may be
performed using the forward-facing camera and some steps can be
performed using the rearward-facing camera. The display shown to
the user (e.g., on the screen on the front of the device) can
change from the forward- to the rearward-facing camera depending on
the step being performed. In some embodiments, the change of
cameras occurs automatically.
[0196] In some examples, the user may place the smartphone in a
smartphone stand, and may be instructed to position the test kit in
front of the smartphone such that both the user and the test kit
are visible in the inward-facing camera on the front of the
smartphone above the screen, for example, as described above with
respect to FIG. 30A. With continued reference to examples where the
user accesses the platform using a smartphone, the user may be
instructed to seat themselves at a table (with a flat surface),
place the test kit on the table about 1.5 to 2 feet from the edge
of the table, place their smartphone 3004 in a smartphone stand
3006 (e.g., that is included in the test kit), and position the
smartphone 3004 in the smartphone stand 3006 on the table between
themselves and the test kit 3002 such that their face and upper
body is within the field of view of the smartphone's inward-facing
camera and the test kit is within the field of the smartphone's
outward-facing camera. Depending on whether the user is being given
test kit guidance or sample collection guidance, the live video
feed that's displayed for the user and overlaid with graphics may
switch between the outward- and inward-facing cameras.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Techniques for Proctor Assistance
[0197] In some embodiments, the platform may be configured to use
proctor-generated data to train an artificial intelligence (AI)
system (e.g., a neural network) to facilitate review of test
results. For example, for each test performed using a live proctor,
an image of the physical test (e.g., as captured by the camera on
the user's device upon completion of the test and presented to the
proctor for interpretation) can be stored in association with the
test result as interpreted by the proctor. For example,
proctor-classified positive and negative test result images can be
stored. These stored images and the corresponding
proctor-determined test results can be used as data for training
one or more neural networks to provide accurate test result
interpretations. For example, a single neural network could be
trained using data captured and generated during proctoring
sessions overseen by many different proctors. Alternatively or
additionally, a neural network could be trained using data captured
and generated during proctoring sessions overseen by one specific
proctor. Training of the neural network could be conducted in a
training phase, on an ongoing basis, or a combination thereof. In
this way, as the platform generates data using live proctors, the
data set for training the neural network can grow, increasing the
accuracy with which the neural network can analyze the test
results.
[0198] Once the neural network is sufficiently trained, the neural
network can, in some implementations, be used to analyze the test
results. In some embodiments, the neural network can be used as a
supplement to the proctors' interpretations of the test results.
For example, an AI-assisted test result interpretation can be
provided to help the proctors analyze the test results. A machine
learning model (e.g., the neural network trained in the
aforementioned manner) can be used to provide proctors with
recommended suggested test result interpretations in real-time
based on images of physical tests (as captured upon test completion
and presented to proctors for interpretation). The proctors may
then be given the option to agree or disagree with each
recommendation. This may facilitate faster test interpretation by
the proctor and/or generate additional data that could be used to
continually train the neural network.
[0199] FIG. 31 is a flowchart illustrating an example method for
training an artificial intelligence or machine learning system to
interpret test results according to one embodiment. At 3102, images
of test results can be captured. For example, such images can be
taken during a proctored video session. In some embodiments, the
images are still images taken from a recording of the proctored
video session. In some embodiments, the images comprise video of
the test results. At 3104, during a proctored testing session, the
proctor can view the test results and make a determination as to
whether the results are positive or negative. At 3106, the image of
the test result (from 3102) and the determination made by the
proctor (at 3104) are stored as a result-image pair. At 3108,
result-image pairs can be used to train an AI or machine learning
model (such as the neural network described above).
[0200] Once the AI model has been trained, the model may, at 3110,
present AI-determined recommendations to the proctors during
proctored test sessions. For example, during a proctored test
session an image of the test results can be captured and displayed
to the proctor. The image can also be transmitted to the AI model,
which can make a determination as to the result. The AI-determined
result can be presented to the proctor as a recommendation. The
proctor may make the final determination of the result based on the
image of the test results as well as the AI-determined result. When
the proctor determines the result, the result-image pair may be
stored and used to further refine the training of the AI model.
Computer Systems
[0201] FIG. 32 is a block diagram depicting an embodiment of a
computer hardware system configured to run software for
implementing one or more embodiments of the health testing and
diagnostic systems, methods, and devices disclosed herein.
[0202] In some embodiments, the systems, processes, and methods
described herein are implemented using a computing system, such as
the one illustrated in FIG. 32. The example computer system 3202 is
in communication with one or more computing systems 3220 and/or one
or more data sources 3222 via one or more networks 3218. While FIG.
32 illustrates an embodiment of a computing system 3202, it is
recognized that the functionality provided for in the components
and modules of computer system 3202 may be combined into fewer
components and modules, or further separated into additional
components and modules.
[0203] The computer system 3202 can comprise a health testing and
diagnostic module 3214 that carries out the functions, methods,
acts, and/or processes described herein. The health testing and
diagnostic module 3214 is executed on the computer system 3202 by a
central processing unit 3206 discussed further below.
[0204] In general, the word "module," as used herein, refers to
logic embodied in hardware or firmware or to a collection of
software instructions, having entry and exit points. Modules are
written in a program language, such as JAVA, C or C++, PYPHON or
the like. Software modules may be compiled or linked into an
executable program, installed in a dynamic link library, or may be
written in an interpreted language such as BASIC, PERL, LUA, or
Python. Software modules may be called from other modules or from
themselves, and/or may be invoked in response to detected events or
interruptions. Modules implemented in hardware include connected
logic units such as gates and flip-flops, and/or may include
programmable units, such as programmable gate arrays or
processors.
[0205] Generally, the modules described herein refer to logical
modules that may be combined with other modules or divided into
sub-modules despite their physical organization or storage. The
modules are executed by one or more computing systems and may be
stored on or within any suitable computer readable medium or
implemented in-whole or in-part within special designed hardware or
firmware. Not all calculations, analysis, and/or optimization
require the use of computer systems, though any of the
above-described methods, calculations, processes, or analyses may
be facilitated through the use of computers. Further, in some
embodiments, process blocks described herein may be altered,
rearranged, combined, and/or omitted.
[0206] The computer system 3202 includes one or more processing
units (CPU) 3206, which may comprise a microprocessor. The computer
system 3202 further includes a physical memory 3210, such as random
access memory (RAM) for temporary storage of information, a read
only memory (ROM) for permanent storage of information, and a mass
storage device 3204, such as a backing store, hard drive, rotating
magnetic disks, solid state disks (SSD), flash memory, phase-change
memory (PCM), 3D XPoint memory, diskette, or optical media storage
device. Alternatively, the mass storage device may be implemented
in an array of servers. Typically, the components of the computer
system 3202 are connected to the computer using a standards-based
bus system. The bus system can be implemented using various
protocols, such as Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI), Micro
Channel, SCSI, Industrial Standard Architecture (ISA) and Extended
ISA (EISA) architectures.
[0207] The computer system 3202 includes one or more input/output
(I/O) devices and interfaces 3212, such as a keyboard, mouse, touch
pad, and printer. The I/O devices and interfaces 3212 can include
one or more display devices, such as a monitor, that allows the
visual presentation of data to a user. More particularly, a display
device provides for the presentation of GUIs as application
software data, and multi-media presentations, for example. The I/O
devices and interfaces 3212 can also provide a communications
interface to various external devices. The computer system 3202 may
comprise one or more multi-media devices 3208, such as speakers,
video cards, graphics accelerators, and microphones, for
example.
[0208] The computer system 3202 may run on a variety of computing
devices, such as a server, a Windows server, a Structure Query
Language server, a Unix Server, a personal computer, a laptop
computer, and so forth. In other embodiments, the computer system
3202 may run on a cluster computer system, a mainframe computer
system and/or other computing system suitable for controlling
and/or communicating with large databases, performing high volume
transaction processing, and generating reports from large
databases. The computing system 3202 is generally controlled and
coordinated by an operating system software, such as z/OS, Windows,
Linux, UNIX, BSD, SunOS, Solaris, MacOS, or other compatible
operating systems, including proprietary operating systems.
Operating systems control and schedule computer processes for
execution, perform memory management, provide file system,
networking, and I/O services, and provide a user interface, such as
a graphical user interface (GUI), among other things.
[0209] The computer system 3202 illustrated in FIG. 32 is coupled
to a network 3218, such as a LAN, WAN, or the Internet via a
communication link 3216 (wired, wireless, or a combination
thereof). Network 3218 communicates with various computing devices
and/or other electronic devices. Network 3218 is communicating with
one or more computing systems 3220 and one or more data sources
3222. The health testing and diagnostic module 3214 may access or
may be accessed by computing systems 3220 and/or data sources 3222
through a web-enabled user access point. Connections may be a
direct physical connection, a virtual connection, and other
connection type. The web-enabled user access point may comprise a
browser module that uses text, graphics, audio, video, and other
media to present data and to allow interaction with data via the
network 3218.
[0210] Access to the health testing and diagnostic module 3214 of
the computer system 3202 by computing systems 3220 and/or by data
sources 3222 may be through a web-enabled user access point such as
the computing systems' 3220 or data source's 3222 personal
computer, cellular phone, smartphone, laptop, tablet computer,
e-reader device, audio player, or another device capable of
connecting to the network 3218. Such a device may have a browser
module that is implemented as a module that uses text, graphics,
audio, video, and other media to present data and to allow
interaction with data via the network 3218.
[0211] The output module may be implemented as a combination of an
all-points addressable display such as a cathode ray tube (CRT), a
liquid crystal display (LCD), a plasma display, or other types
and/or combinations of displays. The output module may be
implemented to communicate with input devices 3212 and they also
include software with the appropriate interfaces which allow a user
to access data through the use of stylized screen elements, such as
menus, windows, dialogue boxes, tool bars, and controls (for
example, radio buttons, check boxes, sliding scales, and so forth).
Furthermore, the output module may communicate with a set of input
and output devices to receive signals from the user.
[0212] The input device(s) may comprise a keyboard, roller ball,
pen and stylus, mouse, trackball, voice recognition system, or
pre-designated switches or buttons. The output device(s) may
comprise a speaker, a display screen, a printer, or a voice
synthesizer. In addition, a touch screen may act as a hybrid
input/output device. In another embodiment, a user may interact
with the system more directly such as through a system terminal
connected to the score generator without communications over the
Internet, a WAN, or LAN, or similar network.
[0213] In some embodiments, the system 3202 may comprise a physical
or logical connection established between a remote microprocessor
and a mainframe host computer for the express purpose of uploading,
downloading, or viewing interactive data and databases online in
real time. The remote microprocessor may be operated by an entity
operating the computer system 3202, including the client server
systems or the main server system, an/or may be operated by one or
more of the data sources 3222 and/or one or more of the computing
systems 3220. In some embodiments, terminal emulation software may
be used on the microprocessor for participating in the
micro-mainframe link.
[0214] In some embodiments, computing systems 3220 who are internal
to an entity operating the computer system 3202 may access the
health testing and diagnostic module 3214 internally as an
application or process run by the CPU 3206.
[0215] In some embodiments, one or more features of the systems,
methods, and devices described herein can utilize a URL and/or
cookies, for example for storing and/or transmitting data or user
information. A Uniform Resource Locator (URL) can include a web
address and/or a reference to a web resource that is stored on a
database and/or a server. The URL can specify the location of the
resource on a computer and/or a computer network. The URL can
include a mechanism to retrieve the network resource. The source of
the network resource can receive a URL, identify the location of
the web resource, and transmit the web resource back to the
requestor. A URL can be converted to an IP address, and a Domain
Name System (DNS) can look up the URL and its corresponding IP
address. URLs can be references to web pages, file transfers,
emails, database accesses, and other applications. The URLs can
include a sequence of characters that identify a path, domain name,
a file extension, a host name, a query, a fragment, scheme, a
protocol identifier, a port number, a username, a password, a flag,
an object, a resource name and/or the like. The systems disclosed
herein can generate, receive, transmit, apply, parse, serialize,
render, and/or perform an action on a URL.
[0216] A cookie, also referred to as an HTTP cookie, a web cookie,
an internet cookie, and a browser cookie, can include data sent
from a website and/or stored on a user's computer. This data can be
stored by a user's web browser while the user is browsing. The
cookies can include useful information for websites to remember
prior browsing information, such as a shopping cart on an online
store, clicking of buttons, login information, and/or records of
web pages or network resources visited in the past. Cookies can
also include information that the user enters, such as names,
addresses, passwords, credit card information, etc. Cookies can
also perform computer functions. For example, authentication
cookies can be used by applications (for example, a web browser) to
identify whether the user is already logged in (for example, to a
web site). The cookie data can be encrypted to provide security for
the consumer. Tracking cookies can be used to compile historical
browsing histories of individuals. Systems disclosed herein can
generate and use cookies to access data of an individual. Systems
can also generate and use JSON web tokens to store authenticity
information, HTTP authentication as authentication protocols, IP
addresses to track session or identity information, URLs, and the
like.
[0217] The computing system 3202 may include one or more internal
and/or external data sources (for example, data sources 3222). In
some embodiments, one or more of the data repositories and the data
sources described above may be implemented using a relational
database, such as DB2, Sybase, Oracle, CodeBase, and Microsoft.RTM.
SQL Server as well as other types of databases such as a flat-file
database, an entity relationship database, and object-oriented
database, and/or a record-based database.
[0218] The computer system 3202 may also access one or more
databases 3222. The databases 3222 may be stored in a database or
data repository. The computer system 3202 may access the one or
more databases 3222 through a network 3218 or may directly access
the database or data repository through I/O devices and interfaces
3212. The data repository storing the one or more databases 3222
may reside within the computer system 3202.
[0219] FIG. 33 is a block diagram illustrating an example
embodiment of a computer system configured to run software for
implementing one or more embodiments of the health testing and
diagnostic systems, methods, and devices disclosed herein. In some
embodiments, the various systems, methods, and devices described
herein may also be implemented in decentralized systems such as,
for example, blockchain applications. For example, blockchain
technology may be used to maintain user profiles, proctor profiles,
test results, test site databases, and/or financing databases or
ledgers, dynamically generate, execute, and record testing plan
agreements, perform searches, conduct patient-proctor matching,
determine pricing, and conduct any other functionalities described
herein.
[0220] In some embodiments, a health testing and diagnostic
platform 3302 may be comprised of a registration and purchase
module 3304, a testing module 3306, an analytics module 3308, and a
reporting module 3310. The health testing and diagnostic platform
3302 may also comprise a user profile database 3312, a proctor
database 3314, a test database 3316, and/or a site database 3318.
The health testing and diagnostic platform 2002 can be connected to
a network 3320. The network 3320 can be configured to connect the
health testing and diagnostic platform 3302 to one or more proctor
devices 3322, one or more user devices 3324, one or more pharmacy
systems 3326, one or more third-party provider systems 3328, and/or
one or more government systems 3330.
[0221] The registration and purchase 3304 may function by
facilitating patient registration through one or more registration
interfaces and in conjunction with the user database 3312, store
user registration data. The testing module 3306 may be configured
to allow a user to initiate and complete a medical test or visit
with a proctor through a series of pre-testing and testing
interfaces, as described herein. The analytics module 3308 may be
configured to dynamically analyze patient tests across a given
population stored in the test database 3316 and provide structured
data of the test results. The reporting module 3310 may function by
dynamically and automatically reporting test results to government
entities, patients, and third parties using one or more interfaces,
such as one or more application programming interfaces. Each of the
modules can be configured to interact with each other and the
databases discussed herein.
ADDITIONAL EMBODIMENTS
[0222] In the foregoing specification, the invention has been
described with reference to specific embodiments thereof. It will,
however, be evident that various modifications and changes may be
made thereto without departing from the broader spirit and scope of
the invention. The specification and drawings are, accordingly, to
be regarded in an illustrative rather than restrictive sense.
[0223] Indeed, although this invention has been disclosed in the
context of certain embodiments and examples, it will be understood
by those skilled in the art that the invention extends beyond the
specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments
and/or uses of the invention and obvious modifications and
equivalents thereof. In addition, while several variations of the
embodiments of the invention have been shown and described in
detail, other modifications, which are within the scope of this
invention, will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art
based upon this disclosure. It is also contemplated that various
combinations or sub-combinations of the specific features and
aspects of the embodiments may be made and still fall within the
scope of the invention. It should be understood that various
features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined
with, or substituted for, one another in order to form varying
modes of the embodiments of the disclosed invention. Any methods
disclosed herein need not be performed in the order recited. Thus,
it is intended that the scope of the invention herein disclosed
should not be limited by the particular embodiments described
above.
[0224] It will be appreciated that the systems and methods of the
disclosure each have several innovative aspects, no single one of
which is solely responsible or required for the desirable
attributes disclosed herein. The various features and processes
described above may be used independently of one another or may be
combined in various ways. All possible combinations and
subcombinations are intended to fall within the scope of this
disclosure.
[0225] Certain features that are described in this specification in
the context of separate embodiments also may be implemented in
combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features
that are described in the context of a single embodiment also may
be implemented in multiple embodiments separately or in any
suitable subcombination. Moreover, although features may be
described above as acting in certain combinations and even
initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed
combination may in some cases be excised from the combination, and
the claimed combination may be directed to a subcombination or
variation of a subcombination. No single feature or group of
features is necessary or indispensable to each and every
embodiment.
[0226] It will also be appreciated that conditional language used
herein, such as, among others, "can," "could," "might," "may,"
"e.g.," and the like, unless specifically stated otherwise, or
otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally
intended to convey that certain embodiments include, while other
embodiments do not include, certain features, elements and/or
steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to
imply that features, elements and/or steps are in any way required
for one or more embodiments or that one or more embodiments
necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without author
input or prompting, whether these features, elements and/or steps
are included or are to be performed in any particular embodiment.
The terms "comprising," "including," "having," and the like are
synonymous and are used inclusively, in an open-ended fashion, and
do not exclude additional elements, features, acts, operations, and
so forth. In addition, the term "or" is used in its inclusive sense
(and not in its exclusive sense) so that when used, for example, to
connect a list of elements, the term "or" means one, some, or all
of the elements in the list. In addition, the articles "a," "an,"
and "the" as used in this application and the appended claims are
to be construed to mean "one or more" or "at least one" unless
specified otherwise. Similarly, while operations may be depicted in
the drawings in a particular order, it is to be recognized that
such operations need not be performed in the particular order shown
or in sequential order, or that all illustrated operations be
performed, to achieve desirable results. Further, the drawings may
schematically depict one more example processes in the form of a
flowchart. However, other operations that are not depicted may be
incorporated in the example methods and processes that are
schematically illustrated. For example, one or more additional
operations may be performed before, after, simultaneously, or
between any of the illustrated operations. Additionally, the
operations may be rearranged or reordered in other embodiments. In
certain circumstances, multitasking and parallel processing may be
advantageous. Moreover, the separation of various system components
in the embodiments described above should not be understood as
requiring such separation in all embodiments, and it should be
understood that the described program components and systems may
generally be integrated together in a single software product or
packaged into multiple software products. Additionally, other
embodiments are within the scope of the following claims. In some
cases, the actions recited in the claims may be performed in a
different order and still achieve desirable results.
[0227] Further, while the methods and devices described herein may
be susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms,
specific examples thereof have been shown in the drawings and are
herein described in detail. It should be understood, however, that
the invention is not to be limited to the particular forms or
methods disclosed, but, to the contrary, the invention is to cover
all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the
spirit and scope of the various implementations described and the
appended claims. Further, the disclosure herein of any particular
feature, aspect, method, property, characteristic, quality,
attribute, element, or the like in connection with an
implementation or embodiment can be used in all other
implementations or embodiments set forth herein. Any methods
disclosed herein need not be performed in the order recited. The
methods disclosed herein may include certain actions taken by a
practitioner; however, the methods can also include any third-party
instruction of those actions, either expressly or by implication.
The ranges disclosed herein also encompass any and all overlap,
sub-ranges, and combinations thereof. Language such as "up to," "at
least," "greater than," "less than," "between," and the like
includes the number recited. Numbers preceded by a term such as
"about" or "approximately" include the recited numbers and should
be interpreted based on the circumstances (e.g., as accurate as
reasonably possible under the circumstances, for example .+-.5%,
.+-.10%, .+-.15%, etc.). For example, "about 3.5 mm" includes "3.5
mm." Phrases preceded by a term such as "substantially" include the
recited phrase and should be interpreted based on the circumstances
(e.g., as much as reasonably possible under the circumstances). For
example, "substantially constant" includes "constant." Unless
stated otherwise, all measurements are at standard conditions
including temperature and pressure.
[0228] As used herein, a phrase referring to "at least one of" a
list of items refers to any combination of those items, including
single members. As an example, "at least one of: A, B, or C" is
intended to cover: A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, and A, B,
and C. Conjunctive language such as the phrase "at least one of X,
Y and Z," unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise
understood with the context as used in general to convey that an
item, term, etc. may be at least one of X, Y or Z. Thus, such
conjunctive language is not generally intended to imply that
certain embodiments require at least one of X, at least one of Y,
and at least one of Z to each be present. The headings provided
herein, if any, are for convenience only and do not necessarily
affect the scope or meaning of the devices and methods disclosed
herein.
[0229] Accordingly, the claims are not intended to be limited to
the embodiments shown herein, but are to be accorded the widest
scope consistent with this disclosure, the principles and the novel
features disclosed herein.
* * * * *
References