White Paper ► Optimizing Point-of-Care Testing

Point-of-care (POC) testing benefits patient care by providing faster answers to patients and clinicians. In recent years, the number and variety of POC tests has increased due to the utility of fast, near-patient testing. However, larger and more complex POC testing programs are challenging for the laboratory to manage. 

Health systems can have a wide range of POC instruments and tests, thousands of nonlaboratory operators performing the tests, and multiple testing sites. The laboratory is responsible for ensuring compliance and quality across this broad operational landscape.

The Lab's Role in POC Testing

This white paper examines considerations for labs as they grapple with the regulatory and staffing challenges that come with POC testing programs, including:

• The vital role of governance in overseeing POC testing
• Regulatory requirements for different POC testing types
• Evaluating and adopting new POC tests
• POC staffing roles, responsibilities, and qualifications
• Focusing on stewardship to ensure optimal utilization