Point-of-Care Testing
We can now easily measure analytes that were previously thought to be very difficult to measure at point of care. Devices that previously filled a room have now been miniaturised to hand size - Dr Bernie Croal
image by: Getty Images For Unsplash+
HWN Suggests
Point-of-care testing: a critical analysis of the market and future trends
The recent COVID-19 pandemic showed the importance of point-of-care testing with rapid antigen test (RAT) kits to diagnose COVID-19 in domestic settings. RAT kits had a decent accuracy rate and helped reduce the need to go to hospitals during the pandemic, which was convenient given the contagious nature of the virus. It should be noted that the devices for point-of-care testing can be of several forms, such as basic dipsticks with urinalysis, handheld devices like glucose meters, and even complex molecular analyzers for detecting infectionsFeatured
Faster results, better care: The rising importance of point-of-care testing
The ability of POCT to provide timely diagnosis and treatment has also proven beneficial for patients with various medical conditions.8 Whether through rapid C-reactive protein (CRP) testing equipment, immunofluorescence testers, biosensors, or protein chip technology, each form of POCT can help detect conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and infectious diseases like HIV and hepatitis. However, POCT is also showing a lot of potential in the diagnosis and treatment of pediatric issues.
Point-of-care testing (PoCT) devices: medical and human progress
The pandemic has at least had the merit of putting the spotlight on point-of-care testing (PoCT). The famous COVID tests are perfect illustrations of this.
Articles of Interest
Digital Diagnostics: Over-the-Counter (OTC) and Point-of-Care (POC)
In vitro diagnostic (IVD) tests that have been traditionally performed in laboratories (labs) are becoming increasingly performed outside of labs, which leaves those tests untethered from their usual data collection and reporting systems. Over the past several years, we have seen a rapid increase in point-of-care (POC), at-home, and over-the-counter (OTC) tests ("non-lab-based") for SARS-CoV-2, and it is expected that these and other non-laboratory-based tests will continue to increase in the coming years.
Point of Care Testing: A Blessing or a Burden?
Point-of-care testing (POCT) refers to medical diagnostic testing that is performed near the patient, often at the bedside, rather than in a centralized laboratory. This type of testing provides rapid results, allowing healthcare providers to make immediate treatment decisions. POCT devices are typically portable, easy to use, and require minimal training. They are suitable for various healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, doctor’s offices, and even remote areas like cruise ships, and airplanes. In general, POC tests offer healthcare providers guidance for promptly managing their patients.
Point of Care Testing: What It Is and Why Every Clinic Needs It
Using point of care testing is no longer just a nice option for clinics, it's a must in today’s healthcare world.
The Role of Point-of-Care Testing to Improve Acute Care and Health Care Services
Health care is one of the most important services that need to be provided to any community. Many challenges exist in delivering proper and effective health services, including ensuring timely delivery, providing adequate care through effective management and achieving good outcomes. Point-of-care testing (POCT) plays a crucial role in delivering urgent and appropriate health services, especially in peripheral communities, emergency situations, disaster areas and overcrowded areas.
Resources
Point of Care Testing Association
Advocating for safe, effective, and cost-effective patient testing at the time of treatment.
StatPearls
Point-of-care testing is clinical laboratory testing performed at or near the site where patient care is delivered. Unlike traditional laboratory testing, which may involve delays in sample transport and result reporting, point-of-care testing offers rapid turnaround times that support timely clinical decision-making. Advances in technology, including miniaturized electronics and improved instrumentation, have enabled devices to become smaller, more accurate, and more accessible across various healthcare settings. This development allows a broad range of healthcare professionals, and in some cases even patients, to perform testing that informs immediate treatment decisions
