Point of Care Testing (POCT) Policy Term Definition

POCT is laboratory testing performed at or near the patient site, usually by non-laboratory employees (e.g., physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists, and perfusionists). The central criterion of POCT is that it does not require permanent dedicated space. Examples include kits and instruments that are hand-carried or otherwise transported to the vicinity of the patient for immediate testing at that site. POCT does not include limited-service satellite laboratories with fixed dedicated testing space. Synonyms: bedside tests, alternative site test, near patient testing.