Pointofcare

Point of care refers to medical care and testing provided at the time and place of patient interaction, rather than in a centralized laboratory or facility. The concept encompasses point-of-care testing (POCT) and point-of-care imaging or assessments, with the aim of delivering rapid information to support clinical decisions and patient management.

Point-of-care testing involves portable or bedside devices that perform diagnostic analyses near the patient. Common POCT includes glucose meters, rapid infectious disease tests, blood gas and electrolyte analyses, coagulation tests such as INR, and other bedside assays. Point-of-care imaging, such as bedside ultrasound (POCUS), is increasingly used by clinicians to assess acute conditions in emergency rooms, clinics, ambulances, and rural settings.

Advantages of point of care include shorter turnaround times, quicker triage and treatment decisions, lower need for sample transport, and the potential to improve patient flow, emergency department throughput, and access in remote or resource-limited areas. It supports timely interventions, workflow efficiency, and bedside monitoring.

Challenges and considerations include ensuring accuracy and reliability of tests, maintaining quality control, and providing adequate operator training. Regulatory and accreditation requirements, data integration with electronic health records, and ongoing cost management are important. Not all tests are suitable for point of care, and some results may require confirmatory laboratory testing or careful interpretation to avoid misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment.

Overall, point of care represents a broad approach to delivering rapid, on-site medical information and services that can enhance clinical decision-making and patient outcomes across diverse settings.