Disadvantages of POCT—Administrative

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The page below is a sample from the LabCE course Point-of-Care Testing (POCT): The Applications, Advantages, and Challenges. Access the complete course and earn ASCLS P.A.C.E.-approved continuing education credits by subscribing online.

Learn more about Point-of-Care Testing (POCT): The Applications, Advantages, and Challenges (online CE course)
Disadvantages of POCT—Administrative

POCT also has disadvantages that impact multiple aspects of the process and outcomes. Some disadvantages of POCT include:
  • Management of the testing: Many personnel may perform testing at multiple sites. Transporting equipment and test kits, maintaining appropriate stock levels of kits and supplies, and managing reagent out dates also add to the challenge of managing the POCT process.
  • Number of testing personnel: POCT frequently encompasses many operators with various job titles and responsibilities.
  • Testing personnel locations: Administrative oversight is challenged by the lack of a central testing location.
  • Cost per test: Individual cost per test may be higher than tests performed on a large volume platform in the central laboratory. The increase in per-test cost results from multiple factors, such as low test volume in the POCT location(s) and higher cost of individual test materials. Test systems utilizing enclosed cartridges analyzed by a POCT instrument may have higher costs per test cartridge. Conversely, the overall cost of patient care may be lower when POCT is employed as it allows patients to be treated or processed quicker through the healthcare system, reducing the cost of patient care.