Point of Care Testing (POCT) offers tremendous potential for faster decisions and improved patient outcomes, but realizing its full value requires more than deploying devices. In this article, I explore how organizations can use well-chosen metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs) to evaluate performance, ensure quality, demonstrate impact, and make informed decisions about POCT implementation and management.

From essential KPIs in quality, turnaround time, compliance, and clinical outcomes to practical strategies for data-driven improvement, this piece provides a clear framework for turning POCT into a true strategic asset.

My MSc thesis in Health Policy Research at the University of Alberta examined how Hematology Point of Care Testing (POCT), can deliver rapid near-patient results to improve efficiency and health equity in Canada’s rural Emergency Departments that are facing staffing shortages, long laboratory turnaround times, geographic isolation, and growing patient demand, while identifying the governance and decision-making barriers slowing its adoption.