Point of Care Testing

Point-of-care testing (POCT) is a type of testing in which the analysis is carried out at the location where medical care is given to the patient or close by. The medical and scientific literature has offered many definitions, and additional terms that have been used as alternatives include near patient testing (NPT), bedside testing, physicians office testing (POL), off site testing, alternative site testing, etc.
Point-of-care testing (POCT) is defined as “testing that is performed near or at the site of a patient with the result leading to a possible change in the patient’s care” by the international standard ISO 22870, Point-of-care testing (POCT) – Requirements for quality and competence.6
The application of POCT is accurately yet broadly described by this definition of POCT. In reality, POCT can be done anywhere, such as at home or on one’s own.