Background: The use of point-of-care testing (POCT) in different clinical applications is justified by the fact that the time to release the result is shortened, allowing the physician to define the diagnosis and most appropriate therapy in a shorter time. However, the negative aspects must also be highlighted and studied so that we can move forward with the use of these devices. These negative aspects include greater analytical imprecision compared to laboratory automation, the variability between different equipment from different manufacturers, the risk of inappropriate use, a low level of global regulation, higher costs compared with laboratory testing and cost ineffectiveness in terms of health care. Methods and.
Results: This review presents some clinical applications of POCT in different scenarios, such as for diabetes mellitus, infectious diseases, pediatrics, and chronic kidney disease, among others.
Conclusions: We hope to see a global consensus on an acceptable quality standard for performing POCT that is adaptable, practical, and cost effective in primary care settings, ensuring patient safety, and minimizing the risk of harm.