WO2022133167A1

WO2022133167A1 - Anonymous testing systems and methods

Info

Publication number: WO2022133167A1
Application number: PCT/US2021/063952
Authority: WO
Inventors: Sameer Halai; Joanna MASEL; James Petrie; Victoria SKELLEY
Original assignee: Wehealth
Priority date: 2020-12-18
Filing date: 2021-12-17
Publication date: 2022-06-23

Abstract

A receptacle stores a sample to be collected from a patient and for holding the sample for testing to obtain test results. A label provides to the patient and for affixing to the receptacle after the sample is collected. The label has indicia corresponding to a code for providing to the patient. A scanner obtains a digital image of the indicia. A computing system has memory with computer readable instructions, a database for storing the test results within a plurality of data records, and a processor for executing the computer readable instructions. The computer readable instructions include instructions for converting the digital image of the indicia into the code for storage in one of the plurality of data records, for receiving the test results for storage in the one of the plurality of data records, and for communicating with the patient, securely, to notify the patient when the test results have been received.

Description

ANONYMOUS TESTING SYSTEMS AND METHODS

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of co-pending U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/127,347 entitled “ANONYMOUS TESTING SYSTEMS AND METHODS” filed December 18, 2020 which is incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The subject disclosure is directed an anonymous testing system and, more specifically, to anonymous testing systems, methods, and kits for anonymously sharing test results for an infectious disease test with a patient having a mobile device.

BACKGROUND ART

[0003] Many infectious diseases are highly contagious and readily transmissible, and, in some cases, medical cures have not yet been discovered. A fundamental step in preventing the spread of such infectious diseases is to inform people that have been exposed to an infectious disease and/or that have been infected by the disease, so that they can take the appropriate steps to treat the disease and/or to prevent further infection. Hopefully, once someone knows they are infected, they will such steps.

[0004] Even though the tests for many diseases are highly accurate, many people are reluctant to have themselves tested, especially when there is a fear that the test results could be inadvertently disclosed to the general public. As a result, systems have been developed that attempt to protect individuals from the general dissemination of test results.

[0005] Medical practices and policies, like the doctor-patient privilege, attempt to shield people with infectious diseases from embarrassing exposure and public ridicule. There are clinics which have procedures for anonymous testing. These clinics use number identifiers to protect patient confidentiality. However, the requisite anonymity in a secure environment is difficult to maintain, especially with respect to both test results and the mere fact that a test has occurred. Accordingly, there is a need for a medical testing system that is particularly designed to test for an infectious disease and provide the requisite confidentiality that allows the user to be completely anonymous.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

[0006] In various implementations, an apparatus for sharing test results for an infectious disease test with a patient having a mobile device is provided. A receptacle stores a sample to be collected from the patient and for holding the sample for testing to obtain test results. A label is provided to the patient and for affixing to the receptacle after the sample is collected. The label has indicia corresponding to a code for providing to the patient. A scanner obtains a digital image of the indicia. A computing system for communicating with the scanner has memory for storing computer readable instructions, a database for storing the test results within a plurality of data records, and a processor for executing the computer readable instructions. The computer readable instructions include instructions for converting the digital image of the indicia into the code for storage in one of the plurality of data records, for receiving the test results for storage in the one of the plurality of data records, and for communicating with the patient to notify the patient when the test results have been received.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] FIGS. 1A-1C represent a schematic diagram of an anonymous testing system in accordance with the subject disclosure.

[0008] FIG. 2 is an exemplary process in accordance with the subject disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 3 is a computer architecture diagram illustrating an illustrative computer hardware and software architecture for a computing system in accordance with the subject disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a computing environment in accordance with the subject disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an exemplary mobile device.

MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0012] The subject disclosure is directed to an anonymous testing system and, more specifically, to anonymous testing systems, methods, and kits for anonymously sharing test results for an infectious disease test with a patient having a mobile device. The disclosed subject matter utilizes sheets of adhesive labels that include pre-generated codes, so that a patient can drive to a testing site, apply one of the labels to a sample receptacle, and have the label scanned in on the site.

[0013] Then, the sample is tested, and the test results are sent to a mobile device that is associated with the patient. Specifically, the test results can be pulled to the mobile device to enhance anonymity. Once the patient receives the test results, the patient can decide whether to share the test results through an infectious disease notification system or to a contact tracer. In some embodiments, the instrumentality has a pre-commitment to share anonymously.

[0014] The detailed description provided below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of examples and is not intended to represent the only forms in which the present examples can be constructed or utilized. The description sets forth functions of the examples and sequences of steps for constructing and operating the examples. However, the same or equivalent functions and sequences can be accomplished by different examples.

[0015] References to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “an example embodiment,” “one implementation,” “an implementation,” “one example,” “an example” and the like, indicate that the described embodiment, implementation or example can include a particular feature, structure or characteristic, but every embodiment, implementation or example can not necessarily include the particular feature, structure or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment, implementation or example. Further, when a particular feature, structure or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, implementation or example, it is to be appreciated that such feature, structure or characteristic can be implemented in connection with other embodiments, implementations or examples whether or not explicitly described.

[0016] Numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of one or more embodiments of the described subject matter. It is to be appreciated, however, that such embodiments can be practiced without these specific details. [0017] Various features of the subject disclosure are now described in more detail with reference to the drawings, wherein like numerals generally refer to like or corresponding elements throughout. The drawings and detailed description are not intended to limit the claimed subject matter to the particular form described. Rather, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0018] The disclosed subject matter can be implemented within the Google Apple Exposure Notification (GAEN) system. The GAEN system represents a privacy-preserving Bluetooth® protocol to support exposure notification, specifically for combatting the spread of SARS-CoV-2 (i.e., the pathogen that causes COVID-19). The GAEN system makes it possible to alert participants about possible exposure to SARS-CoV-2. Bluetooth® is a registered trademark of Bluetooth Sig, Inc. of Kirkland, Washington.

[0019] The disclosed subject matter can be implemented as a system, a method, and/or a computer program product at any possible technical detail level of integration. The computer program product can include a computer readable storage medium (or media) having computer readable program instructions thereon for causing a processor to carry out embodiments and features of the subject disclosure.

[0020] The system, method, and/or computer program can be implemented with mobile devices and smartphones, as well as other types of computer systems and/or computing devices, such as handheld computers, tablets, PCs, desktops, workstations, or any other similar device.

[0021] Referring to FIGS. 1A-1C, various features of the subject disclosure are now described in more detail with respect to an operating environment, generally designated with the numeral 100. The operating environment 100 implements an anonymous testing system 110 that allow a patient 112 having a mobile device 114 to share test results anonymously. The test results can be test results for an infectious disease, such as SARS-CoV-2. The test results can be shared over a network(s) 116 through the GAEN System 118. In some embodiments, the test results can be shared over a network(s) 116 using an app that provides the ability to share using a single-click or button on the mobile device 114.

[0022] The system 110 utilizes pre-generated codes that can relate the patient 112 to the test results anonymously. The patient 112 is linked to the test results without requiring the patient 112 to provide his or her identity to the tester 120. The system 110 utilizes a plurality of sheets 122 of labels 124 that have indicia 126 thereon. The indicia 126 correspond to the pre-generated codes. The codes can be single-use QR codes for scanning by the mobile device 114.

[0023] The labels 124 can be affixed to a test sample receptacle(s) 128 for storing a test sample that is collected from the patient 112. The patient 112 can select one or more of the labels 124 and apply the labels 124 to the test sample receptacle(s) 128 either before or after the test sample is collected.

[0024] Once the sample is collected, the labels 124 are scanned by a scanner 130. The scanner 130 obtains a digital image of the indicia 126. The image of the indicia 126 is communicated to a computing system 132. The scanner 130 can be a hand-held scanner or any other type of suitable scanning device.

[0025] The computing system 132 converts the digital image of the indicia 126 into the code for storage in one of the plurality of data records 134. The data records 134 can be modified to indicate that the status of the test is pending when the digital image of the indicia 126 is converted into the code for storage in the one of the data records 134.

[0026] The computing system 132 can be accessed by a lab technician 136 at a lab 138 through a computing device 140. The lab technician 136 can perform a test on the sample to obtain the test results. Then, the test results can be sent through the computing device 140 and the network(s) 116 to one or more of the server(s) 142 within the computing system 132. The server(s) 142 can be configured to require the test results to be pulled by the mobile device 114 to further enhance anonymity. [0027] Once the test results are obtained from the lab 138 by the computing system 132, the computing system 132 modifies the data records 134 within a database 144 on one or more of the server(s) 142. Then, the computing system 132 can communicate with the patient 112 to notify the patient 112 when the test results have been received. In some embodiments in which email addresses are collected, the patient 112 can be notified via email communication 146 to the mobile device 114. In other embodiments, the test results can be encrypted in open database and accessed with random codes.

[0028] The computing system 132 can provide the patient 112 with the ability to trigger anonymous notifications 148 of their contacts in the light of a positive test result 150 throughout the network(s) 116 and/or the GAEN System 118 using the mobile device 114. Alternatively, the patient 112 can send the test results to a contact tracer 152 through the mobile device 114. It should be understood that both options are not mutually exclusive.

[0029] In some embodiments, the mobile device 114 can include an app that provides the ability to share the test results, anonymously, throughout the network(s) 116 and/or the GAEN System 118, using a single click. Similarly, the app can be configured to permit sharing with contact tracer 152 using a single click.

[0030] Further, it should be understood that the app can be configured to verify the identity of the contact tracer 152 and/or to verify that the patient 112 has provided the requisite permissions to share the information with the contact tracer 152. Specifically, the commitment to share the information can be obtained from the patient 112 at the time of testing, so that sharing can be done via a zero-click system.

[0031] In operation, the patient 112 can drive up to a testing center 154 in his or her car 156. The patient 112 can select one or more of the labels 124 that include the single-use codes. The sheets 122 of the labels 124 are provided by the testing center 154 with instructions for downloading an app onto the mobile device 114 that enables the anonymous sharing of test results through the network(s) 116, through the GAEN System 118, and/or with the contact tracer 152. In some embodiments, the app can prompt the patient 112 to obtain his or her consent to share test results anonymously through the network(s) 116. Alternatively, consent can be obtained at the time of testing.

[0032] The patient 112 can utilize the mobile device 114 to scan the labels 124 to obtain the QR code thereon. The patient 112 can put one of the labels 124 on one of the receptacle(s) 128, so that the receptacle(s) 128 can store a sample that is collected through a sample collection process, such as through swabbing or through the drawing of blood. [0033] The tester 120 can scan the labels 124 using the scanner 130. The scanner 130 activates the computing system 132 to create one of the data records 134 for the test. The computing system 132 marks one of data records 134 as having a pending test status in the database 144 on one or more of the server(s) 142, as the patient 112 drives away in the car 156. The test is conducted without revealing the identity of the patient 112. The lab does not collect any personal identification information.

[0034] Once the lab testing is complete, the test results are available to the patient 112. The results can be accessed via the mobile device 114 through the network(s) 116 with the status of the test being in the database 144 on one or more of the server(s) 142. The patient 112 can be notified by computing system 132 with notification, typically, occurring between 15 minutes of the test and within ten days.

[0035] The app on the mobile device 114 can be enabled to provide additional measures to hide the identity of the patient 112 when the patient 112 accesses the test results on the server(s) 142. For example, the app can be configured to check for test results at random times, so that every device (not shown) that includes the app is intermittently checking for test results.

[0036] It should be understood that, in such embodiments, the app can be configured to perform such checks even when the person who downloaded the app has not been tested to further enhance anonymity. In such embodiments, the app can be configured to initiate randomly a periodic check for test results for a predetermined period of time, such as every hour for three days. In some embodiments, the app can be configured to check for test results randomly on an average in three month increments.

[0037] In some embodiments, the test results can be associated with keys. The app can be configured to download all test results with the corresponding keys from the server(s) 142, so that the server(s) 142 cannot be used to identify which patient is requesting which test results. While the release of such test results could present privacy concerns, individual test results are only linked to pre-generated codes, so that identity of the patient 112 remains anonymous. As a result, the only information that could be ascertained through this configuration is the total number of tests, which, generally, is shared with the public in most regions.

[0038] In other embodiments, the test results can be encrypted within the pre-generated codes by the server(s) 142 using one-time pad decryption. In such embodiments, the code can include a series of bytes that represent an ID for the individual that obtained the code, a series of bytes representing a verification code, and one or more additional bytes that corresponds to the test results. In some embodiments, the code can include an authorization to share the test results.

[0039] The additional byte or bytes can have one value for a positive test result and another value for a negative test result. In some embodiments, the codes can be protected with a cipher, such as an XOR cipher for encryption and/or decryption, so that only those with knowledge of the pre-generated codes can determine the test result.

[0040] Referring to FIG. 2 with continuing reference to the foregoing figures, an exemplary process, generally designated by the numeral 200, for sharing test results for an infectious disease test. In this exemplary embodiment, the process 200 can be performed within the operating environment 100 shown in FIGS. 1 A-1C.

[0041] The method 200 involves sharing test results for an infectious disease test with a patient having a mobile device, such as the mobile device 114 shown in FIGS. 1 A-1C. The method 200 is enabled through a system, such as the system 110 shown in FIGS. 1 A-1C, which has a receptacle, such as the receptacle(s) 128 shown in FIGS. 1 A-1C.

[0042] A label, such as one of the labels 124 shown in FIGS. 1 A-1C, can be provided to the patient. The label can be affixed to the receptacle after the sample is collected. The label has indicia corresponding to a code for providing to the patient. A scanner, such as the scanner 130 shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, can obtain a digital image of the indicia.

[0043] At 201, the digital image of the indicia is converted into the code for storage in one of the plurality of data records. In this exemplary embodiment, the indicia can be the indicia 126 shown in FIGS. 1 A-1C. The data records can be the data records 134 shown in FIGS. 1A-1C.

[0044] At 202, the test results are received for storage in the one of the plurality of data records. In this exemplary embodiment, the data records can be the data records 134 shown in FIGS. 1A-1C.

[0045] At 203, the patient is notified when the test results have been received. In this exemplary embodiment, the patient can be the patient 112 shown in FIGS. 1 A-1C.

Exemplary Computing Architecture

[0046] Referring now to FIG. 3 with continuing reference to the foregoing figures, computer architecture, generally designated by the numeral 300, includes a central processing unit 302 (“CPU”), a system memory 304, including a random access memory 306 (“RAM”) and a read-only memory (“ROM”) 308, and a system bus 310 that couples the memory 304 to the CPU 302. A basic input/output system containing the basic routines that help to transfer information between elements within the computer architecture 300, such as during startup, is stored in the ROM 308. The computer architecture 300 further includes a mass storage device 312 for storing an operating system 307, and one or more application programs including, but not limited to, a tracking module 105 and contextual data 330, image data 331, calibration data 332, and sensor data 333.

[0047] The mass storage device 312 is connected to the CPU 302 through a mass storage controller (not shown) connected to the bus 310. The mass storage device 312 and its associated computer-readable media provide non-volatile storage for the computer architecture 300. Although the description of computer-readable media contained herein refers to a mass storage device, such as a solid state drive, a hard disk or CD-ROM drive, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that computer-readable media can be any available computer storage media or communication media that can be accessed by the computer architecture 300.

[0048] Communication media includes computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in a modulated data signal such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism and includes any delivery media. The term “modulated data signal” means a signal that has one or more of its characteristics changed or set in a manner as to encode information in the signal. By way of example, and not limitation, communication media includes wired media such as a wired network or direct-wired connection, and wireless media such as acoustic, RF, infrared and other wireless media. Combinations of the any of the above should also be included within the scope of computer-readable media.

[0049] By way of example, and not limitation, computer storage media can include volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data. For example, computer media includes, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other solid state memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (“DVD”), HD-DVD, BLU-RAY, or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to store the desired information and which can be accessed by the computer architecture 300. For purposes the claims, the phrase “computer storage medium,” “computer-readable storage medium” and variations thereof, does not include waves, signals, and/or other transitory and/or intangible communication media, per se. [0050] According to various configurations, the computer architecture 300 can operate in a networked environment using logical connections to remote computers through the network 356 and/or another network (not shown). The computer architecture 300 can connect to the network 356 through a network interface unit 314 connected to the bus 310. It should be appreciated that the network interface unit 314 also can be utilized to connect to other types of networks and remote computer systems. The computer architecture 300 also can include an input/output controller 316 for receiving and processing input from a number of other devices, including a keyboard, mouse, or electronic stylus (not shown in FIG. 3). Similarly, the input/output controller 316 can provide output to a display screen, a printer, or other type of output device (also not shown in FIG. 3).

[0051] It should be appreciated that the software components described herein can, when loaded into the CPU 302 and executed, transform the CPU 302 and the overall computer architecture 300 from a general -purpose computing system into a special-purpose computing system customized to facilitate the functionality presented herein. The CPU 302 can be constructed from any number of transistors or other discrete circuit elements, which can individually or collectively assume any number of states. More specifically, the CPU 302 can operate as a finite-state machine, in response to executable instructions contained within the software modules disclosed herein. These computer-executable instructions can transform the CPU 302 by specifying how the CPU 302 transitions between states, thereby transforming the transistors or other discrete hardware elements constituting the CPU 302.

[0052] Encoding the software modules presented herein also can transform the physical structure of the computer-readable media presented herein. The specific transformation of physical structure can depend on various factors, in different implementations of this description. Examples of such factors can include, but are not limited to, the technology used to implement the computer-readable media, whether the computer-readable media is characterized as primary or secondary storage, and the like. For example, if the computer- readable media is implemented as semiconductor-based memory, the software disclosed herein can be encoded on the computer-readable media by transforming the physical state of the semiconductor memory. For example, the software can transform the state of transistors, capacitors, or other discrete circuit elements constituting the semiconductor memory. The software also can transform the physical state of such components in order to store data thereupon.

[0053] As another example, the computer-readable media disclosed herein can be implemented using magnetic or optical technology. In such implementations, the software presented herein can transform the physical state of magnetic or optical media, when the software is encoded therein. These transformations can include altering the magnetic characteristics of particular locations within given magnetic media. These transformations also can include altering the physical features or characteristics of particular locations within given optical media, to change the optical characteristics of those locations. Other transformations of physical media are possible without departing from the scope and spirit of the present description, with the foregoing examples provided only to facilitate this discussion.

[0054] The mobile device 114, the computing device 140, and the server(s) 142 shown in FIGS. 1 A-1C can be implemented within the computer architecture 300. The network(s) 116 shown in FIGS. 1 A-1C can be implemented as network 356 to connect the mobile device 114 and the computing device 140 to the server(s) 142. The method 200 shown in FIG. 2 can be implemented through the computer architecture 300, at least partially.

[0055] In light of the above, it should be appreciated that many types of physical transformations take place in the computer architecture 300 in order to store and execute the software components presented herein. It also should be appreciated that the computer architecture 300 can include other types of computing devices, including hand-held computers, embedded computer systems, personal digital assistants, and other types of computing devices known to those skilled in the art. It is also contemplated that the computer architecture 300 cannot include all of the components shown in FIG. 3, can include other components that are not explicitly shown in FIG. 3, or can utilize an architecture completely different than that shown in FIG. 3.

[0056] Referring now to FIG. 4 with continuing reference to the foregoing figures, an illustrative computing environment, generally designated by the numeral 400, is shown. The computing environment 400 is capable of executing the software components described herein for providing context-aware recommendations of relevant presentation content displayed in mixed environments, among other aspects. Thus, the computing environment 400 illustrated in FIG. 4 can be utilized to execute any aspects of the software components presented herein. For example, the computing environment 400 can be utilized to execute aspects of the techniques disclosed herein.

[0057] According to various implementations, the computing environment 400 includes a computing environment 402 operating on, in communication with, or as part of the network 404. The network 404 can be or can include the network(s) 116 shown in FIGS. 1 A-1C and/or the network 356 shown in FIG. 3. The mobile device 114, the computing device 140 and the server(s) 142 shown in FIGS. 1 A-1C can be implemented within the computing environment 400. The method 200 shown in FIG. 3 can be implemented through the computing environment 400.

[0058] The network 404 also can include various access networks. One or more client devices 406A-406N (hereinafter referred to collectively and/or generically as “clients 406”) can communicate with the computing environment 402 via the network 404 and/or other connections (not illustrated in FIG. 4). In one illustrated configuration, the clients 406 include a computing device 406A such as a laptop computer, a desktop computer, or other computing device; a slate or tablet computing device (“tablet computing device”) 406B; a mobile computing device 406C such as a mobile telephone, a smart phone, or other mobile computing device; a server computer 406D; and/or other devices 406N. It should be understood that any number of clients 406 can communicate with the computing environment 402. It should be understood that the illustrated clients 406 and computing architectures illustrated and described herein are illustrative, and should not be construed as being limited in any way.

[0059] In the illustrated configuration, the computing environment 402 includes application servers 408, data storage 410, and one or more network interfaces 412. According to various implementations, the functionality of the application servers 408 can be provided by one or more server computers that are executing as part of, or in communication with, the network 404. The application servers 408 can host various services, virtual machines, portals, and/or other resources. In the illustrated configuration, the application servers 408 host one or more virtual machines 414 for hosting applications or other functionality. According to various implementations, the virtual machines 414 host one or more applications and/or software modules for providing context-aware recommendations of relevant presentation content displayed in mixed environments. It should be understood that this configuration is illustrative, and should not be construed as being limiting in any way. The application servers 408 also host or provide access to one or more portals, link pages, Websites, and/or other information (“Web portals”) 416.

[0060] According to various implementations, the application servers 408 also include one or more mailbox services 418 and one or more messaging services 420. The mailbox services 418 can include electronic mail (“email”) services. The mailbox services 418 also can include various personal information management (“PEM”) services including, but not limited to, calendar services, contact management services, collaboration services, and/or other services. The messaging services 420 can include, but are not limited to, instant messaging services, chat services, forum services, and/or other communication services. [0061] The application servers 408 also can include one or more social networking services 422. The social networking services 422 can include various social networking services including, but not limited to, services for sharing or posting status updates, instant messages, links, photos, videos, and/or other information; services for commenting or displaying interest in articles, products, blogs, or other resources; and/or other services. [0062] The social networking services 422 also can include commenting, blogging, and/or micro blogging services. It should be appreciated that the above lists of services are not exhaustive and that numerous additional and/or alternative social networking services 422 are not mentioned herein for the sake of brevity. As such, the above configurations are illustrative, and should not be construed as being limited in any way. According to various implementations, the social networking services 422 can host one or more applications and/or software modules for providing the functionality described herein for providing context- aware recommendations of relevant presentation content displayed in mixed environments. For instance, any one of the application servers 408 can communicate or facilitate the functionality and features described herein.

[0063] As shown in FIG. 4, the application servers 408 also can host other services, applications, portals, and/or other resources (“other resources”) 424. The other resources 424 can include, but are not limited to, document sharing, rendering or any other functionality. It thus can be appreciated that the computing environment 402 can provide integration of the concepts and technologies disclosed herein provided herein with various mailbox, messaging, social networking, and/or other services or resources.

[0064] As mentioned above, the computing environment 402 can include the data storage 410. According to various implementations, the functionality of the data storage 410 is provided by one or more databases operating on, or in communication with, the network 404. The functionality of the data storage 410 also can be provided by one or more server computers configured to host data for the computing environment 402. The data storage 410 can include, host, or provide one or more real or virtual data stores 426A-426N (hereinafter referred to collectively and/or generically as “data stores 426”). The data stores 426 are configured to host data used or created by the application servers 408 and/or other data. Although not illustrated in FIG. 4, the data stores 426 also can host or store web page documents, word processer documents, presentation documents, data structures, algorithms for execution by a recommendation engine, and/or other data utilized by any application program or another module. Aspects of the data stores 426 can be associated with a service for storing files.

[0065] The computing environment 402 can communicate with, or be accessed by, the network interfaces 412. The network interfaces 412 can include various types of network hardware and software for supporting communications between two or more computing devices including, but not limited to, the clients 406 and the application servers 408. It should be appreciated that the network interfaces 412 also can be utilized to connect to other types of networks and/or computer systems.

[0066] It should be understood that the computing environment 400 described herein can provide any aspects of the software elements described herein with any number of virtual computing resources and/or other distributed computing functionality that can be configured to execute any aspects of the software components disclosed herein. According to various implementations of the concepts and technologies disclosed herein, the computing environment 400 provides the software functionality described herein as a service to the clients 406. It should be understood that the clients 406 can include real or virtual machines including, but not limited to, server computers, web servers, personal computers, mobile computing devices, smart phones, and/or other devices. As such, various configurations of the concepts and technologies disclosed herein enable any device configured to access the computing environment 400 to utilize the functionality described herein for providing context-aware recommendations of relevant presentation content displayed in mixed environments, among other aspects.

[0067] Referring now to FIG. 5 with continuing reference to the foregoing figures, a mobile device, generally designated by the numeral 500, is shown. The mobile device 500 can implement various features of the disclosed subject matter within an operating environment, such as operating environment 100 shown in FIGS. 1 A-1C and/or within the computing environment 400 shown in FIG. 4. In this exemplary embodiment, the mobile device 500 can be the mobile device 114, the computing device 140 shown in FIGS. 1 A-1C, computing device 406A, the tablet computing device 406B, and/or the mobile computing device 406C shown in FIG. 4.

[0068] The mobile device 500 can include operating system 510 and various types of software applications and/or apps 512. Additionally, the mobile device 500 can include processor 514 for performing tasks such as signal coding, data processing, input/output processing, power control, and/or other functions, and memory 516 that can be used for storing data and/or code for running operating system 510 and/or the apps 512. Exemplary data can include web pages, text, images, sound files, video data, or other data to be sent to and/or received from a server, such as the server(s) 142 shown in FIGS. 1 A-1C.

[0069] The mobile device 500 can include a wireless network connection receiver 518 and a wireless network connection transmitter 520 for connecting to a network, such as network(s) 116 shown in FIGS. 1 A-1C, to facilitate communication with server(s) 142 shown in FIGS. 1 A-1C. An adapter 522 can be included in the mobile device 500 to facilitate Bluetooth® connections. The mobile device 500 also includes an input/output system 524 and a screen 526 for communicating with one or more users. The mobile device 500 can be utilized to implement the method 200 shown in FIG. 2, at least partially.

Supported Features and Embodiments

[0070] The detailed description provided above in connection with the appended drawings explicitly describes and supports various features of systems and methods for anonymously testing patients and notifying the patients of the results. By way of illustration and not limitation, supported embodiments include an apparatus for sharing test results for an infectious disease test with a patient having a mobile device, the system comprising: a receptacle for storing a sample to be collected from the patient and for holding the sample for testing to obtain test results; a label for providing to the patient and for affixing to the receptacle after the sample is collected; the label having indicia corresponding to a code for providing to the patient; a scanner for obtaining a digital image of the indicia; a computing system for communicating with the scanner with the computer system having memory with computer readable instructions, a database for storing the test results within a plurality of data records, and a processor for executing the computer readable instructions, the computer readable instructions including instructions for: converting the digital image of the indicia into the code for storage in one of the plurality of data records; receiving the test results for storage in the one of the plurality of data records; and communicating with the patient to notify the patient when the test results have been received.

[0071] Supported embodiments include the foregoing apparatus, wherein the indicia is a QR code for scanning by the mobile device.

[0072] Supported embodiments include any of the foregoing apparatuses, wherein the computer system includes a server and the server connects to the mobile device over a network. [0073] Supported embodiments include any of the foregoing apparatuses, wherein the instructions include instructions for: providing the patient with the ability to receive anonymous and secure notification of the test results throughout the network.

[0074] Supported embodiments include any of the foregoing apparatuses, wherein the instructions include instructions for: sending the test results to a contact tracer.

[0075] Supported embodiments include any of the foregoing apparatuses, wherein the label is one of a plurality of labels with each label being affixed to a sheet.

[0076] Supported embodiments include any of the foregoing apparatuses, wherein each label is pre-generated.

[0077] Supported embodiments include any of the foregoing apparatuses, wherein the code is a single use code.

[0078] Supported embodiments include any of the foregoing apparatuses, wherein the computing system includes instructions for modifying the one of the plurality of data records to indicate that the status of the test is pending when the digital image of the indicia is converted into the code for storage in the one of the plurality of data records.

[0079] Supported embodiments include any of the foregoing apparatuses, wherein the computer system notifies the patient by communicating with the mobile device.

[0080] Supported embodiments include a system, a computer-readable storage medium, a computer-implemented method, and/or means for implementing any of the foregoing apparatuses or portions thereof.

[0081] Supported embodiments include a computer-implemented method for sharing test results for an infectious disease test with a patient having a mobile device within a system that includes a receptacle for storing a sample to be collected from the patient and for holding the sample for testing to obtain test results, a label for providing to the patient and for affixing to the receptacle after the sample is collected with the label having indicia corresponding to a code for providing to the patient, and a scanner for obtaining a digital image of the indicia, the method comprising: converting the digital image of the indicia into the code for storage in one of the plurality of data records; receiving the test results for storage in the one of the plurality of data records; and communicating with the patient to notify the patient when the test results have been received.

[0082] Supported embodiments include the foregoing computer-implemented method, further comprising: providing the patient with the ability to receive anonymous and secure notification of the test results throughout the network. [0083] Supported embodiments include any of the foregoing computer-implemented methods, further comprising: sending the test results to a contact tracer.

[0084] Supported embodiments include any of the foregoing computer-implemented methods, further comprising: notifying the patient by communicating with the mobile device. [0085] Supported embodiments include an apparatus, a computer-readable storage medium, a system, and/or means for implementing any of the foregoing computer- implemented methods or portions thereof.

[0086] Supported embodiments include a kit for sharing test results for an infectious disease test with a patient having a mobile device, the system comprising: a receptacle for storing a sample to be collected from the patient and for holding the sample for testing to obtain test results; a label for providing to the patient and for affixing to the receptacle after the sample is collected; the label having indicia corresponding to a code for providing to the patient; a scanner for obtaining a digital image of the indicia; a computing system for communicating with the scanner with the computer system having memory with computer readable instructions, a database for storing the test results within a plurality of data records, and a processor for executing the computer readable instructions, the computer readable instructions including instructions for: converting the digital image of the indicia into the code for storage in one of the plurality of data records; receiving the test results for storage in the one of the plurality of data records; and communicating with the patient to notify the patient when the test results have been received.

[0087] Supported embodiments include the foregoing kit, wherein the instructions include instructions for: providing the patient with the ability to receive anonymous and secure notification of the test results throughout the network.

[0088] Supported embodiments include any of the foregoing kits, wherein the instructions include instructions for: sending the test results to a contact tracer.

[0089] Supported embodiments include any of the foregoing kits, wherein the label is one of a plurality of labels with each label being affixed to a sheet.

[0090] Supported embodiments include any of the foregoing kits, wherein each label is pre-generated.

[0091] Supported embodiments include any of the foregoing kits, wherein the code is a single use QR code.

[0092] Supported embodiments include an apparatus, a computer-readable storage medium, a system, a computer-implemented method, and/or means for implementing any of the foregoing kits or portions thereof. [0093] Supported embodiments can provide various attendant and/or technical advantages in terms of an anonymous and secure testing system that links patients to test results through pre-generated, single use codes. The system can be implemented within an operating environment that provides the patient with the ability to send notifications anonymously and/or to contact a contact tracer.

[0094] The detailed description provided above in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of examples and is not intended to represent the only forms in which the present examples can be constructed or utilized.

[0095] It is to be understood that the configurations and/or approaches described herein are exemplary in nature, and that the described embodiments, implementations and/or examples are not to be considered in a limiting sense, because numerous variations are possible. The specific processes or methods described herein can represent one or more of any number of processing strategies. As such, various operations illustrated and/or described can be performed in the sequence illustrated and/or described, in other sequences, in parallel, or omitted. Likewise, the order of the above-described processes can be changed.

[0096] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and/or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are presented as example forms of implementing the claims.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. An apparatus for sharing test results for an infectious disease test with a patient having a mobile device, the system comprising: a receptacle for storing a sample to be collected from the patient and for holding the sample for testing to obtain test results; a label for providing to the patient and for affixing to the receptacle after the sample is collected; the label having indicia corresponding to a code for providing to the patient; a scanner for obtaining a digital image of the indicia; a computing system for communicating with the scanner with the computing system having memory with computer readable instructions, a database for storing the test results within a plurality of data records, and a processor for executing the computer readable instructions, the computer readable instructions including instructions for: converting the digital image of the indicia into the code for storage in one of the plurality of data records; receiving the test results for storage in the one of the plurality of data records; and communicating with the patient to notify the patient when the test results have been received.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the indicia is a QR code for scanning by the mobile device.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the computer system includes a server and the server connects to the mobile device over a network.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the instructions include instructions for: providing the patient with the ability to receive anonymous notification of the test results throughout the network.

5. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the instructions include instructions for: providing the patient with the ability to send test results over the network anonymously and securely.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the label is one of a plurality of labels with each label being affixed to a sheet.

7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein each label is pre-generated.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the code is a single use code.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the computing system includes instructions for modifying the one of the plurality of data records to indicate that the status of the test is pending when the digital image of the indicia is converted into the code for storage in the one of the plurality of data records.

10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the computer system notifies the patient by communicating with the mobile device.

11. A computer-implemented method for sharing test results for an infectious disease test with a patient having a mobile device within a system that includes a receptacle for storing a sample to be collected from the patient and for holding the sample for testing to obtain test results, a label for providing to the patient and for affixing to the receptacle after the sample is collected with the label having indicia corresponding to a code for providing to the patient, and a scanner for obtaining a digital image of the indicia, the method comprising: converting the digital image of the indicia into the code for storage in one of the plurality of data records; receiving the test results for storage in the one of the plurality of data records; and communicating with the patient to notify the patient when the test results have been received.

12. The computer-implemented method of claim 11, further comprising: providing the patient with the ability to receive anonymous notification of the test results throughout the network.

13. The computer-implemented method of claim 11, further comprising: sending the test results throughout the network anonymously and securely.

14. The computer-implemented method of claim 11, further comprising: notifying the patient through the mobile device.

15. A kit for sharing test results for an infectious disease test with a patient having a mobile device, the system comprising: a receptacle for storing a sample to be collected from the patient and for holding the sample for testing to obtain test results; a label for providing to the patient and for affixing to the receptacle after the sample is collected; the label having indicia corresponding to a code for providing to the patient; a scanner for obtaining a digital image of the indicia; a computing system for communicating with the scanner with the computing system having memory with computer readable instructions, a database for storing the test results within a plurality of data records, and a processor for executing the computer readable instructions, the computer readable instructions including instructions for: converting the digital image of the indicia into the code for storage in one of the plurality of data records; receiving the test results for storage in the one of the plurality of data records; and communicating with the patient to notify the patient when the test results have been received.

16. The kit of claim 15, wherein the instructions include instructions for: providing the patient with the ability to receive anonymous and secure notification of the test results throughout the network.

17. The kit of claim 15, wherein the instructions include instructions for: sending the test results to a contact tracer.

18. The kit of claim 15, wherein the label is one of a plurality of labels with each label being affixed to a sheet.

19. The kit of claim 18, wherein each label is pre-generated.

20. The system of claim 18, wherein the code is a single use QR code.