In this episode of Expert Insights, DCN Dx’s Mitzi Rettinger speaks with Dr. Pat Vaughan, DCN Dx’s Chief Operating Officer, about what point-of-care really meant in 2025, how development expectations have shifted, and his predictions for what 2026 will bring.

Drawing from Pat’s recent article and hands-on experience across assay development, engineering, clinical research, and manufacturing, the discussion breaks down how modern lateral flow programs are being designed around readers, software, data pathways, and real-world use.

The episode explores what this shift changes for teams defining new development programs, including how early design inputs affect performance targets, usability, regulatory strategy, and scalability. Pat also compares today’s realities with predictions he made in his 2024 year-in-review, highlighting where the industry moved faster (and slower) than expected.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

-Why lateral flow is now an integrated system, not just a strip with visual interpretation

-How reader-assisted and semi-quantitative performance are shaping new development programs

-Where teams underestimate complexity when moving from prototype to regulated product

-What “born digital” results and AI-enabled interpretation require from a regulatory and operational standpoint

Guest:
Dr. Pat Vaughan is Chief Operating Officer at DCN Dx, where he works across assay development, engineering, clinical research, regulatory strategy, and manufacturing to support point-of-care diagnostic programs from concept through deployment.