Laboratory tests play a critical role healthcare and technology has improved access to even the most remote areas. The growth of POCT has provided practitioners with an alternative to major laboratories in some cases. POCT devices are typically smaller and easier to use than laboratory equipment, and they can provide results quickly, often within minutes. Laboratory tests are typically more accurate and sensitive than POCT tests, but they can take longer to get results, sometimes days.
POCT vs. Laboratory Testing: Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages of POCT
Quick turnaround time(minutes to hours)
Convenience( can be done at your practice)
Less complex. Tests are typically easy to perform and require minimal training
Disadvantages of POCT
Can be more expensive than laboratory testing
Less accurate and sensitive than laboratory testing
Scope of tests is usually limited
Here are some examples of POCT:
Blood glucose monitoring for people with diabetes
Cholesterol testing
HIV testing
Pregnancy testing
Strep throat testing
Influenza testing
COVID-19 testing
Advantages of laboratory testing
More accurate and sensitive than POCT testing
Typically less expensive than POCT
Covers a broad range of tests
Trusted by most organizations
Disadvantages of laboratory testing
Longer turnaround time(hours to days)
Requires a trip to the laboratory
Tests can be more complex and require specialized training and equipment
Here are some examples of laboratory testing:
Complete blood count (CBC)
Chemistry panel
Urinalysis
Microbiology testing
Pathology testing
POCT and laboratory testing are not mutually exclusive. Often, POCT is used to provide quick results, and then laboratory testing is used to confirm the results and obtain more detailed information.
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