Thesis Summary
Point of Care Testing (POCT) Hematology devices in emergency departments: a mixed methods study
Canada’s healthcare system, particularly rural Emergency Departments (EDs), faces intense pressure from staffing shortages, long laboratory turnaround times, geographic isolation, and growing patient demand. These challenges delay diagnosis, increase patient transfers, and limit equitable care. My Master of Science thesis in Health Policy Research at the University of Alberta examined how Hematology Point of Care Testing (POCT), specifically a complete blood count with differential (CBCD) can deliver rapid, near-patient results to improve efficiency and health equity, while identifying the governance and decision-making uncertainties that currently slow its adoption.
The research included two complementary studies:
Scoping Review of the current landscape of POCT hematology devices suitable for ED settings. This mapped device characteristics, analytical performance, and key implementation themes: rural health equity, operational efficiency (e.g., faster patient flow and reduced length of stay), economic considerations, workforce impacts, and long-term sustainability.
Qualitative Study with stakeholders from Alberta Health Services (AHS) and Alberta Precision Laboratories (APL). Using Donabedian’s structure, process, outcome framework and thematic analysis, the study surfaced real-world barriers (communication gaps, staffing capacity, equipment interoperability, financial accountability, and bureaucratic complexity) and facilitators to POCT adoption.
Key Takeaways & Recommendations While POCT hematology devices show strong potential to reduce diagnostic delays, unnecessary inter-facility transfers, and improve outcomes in rural settings, successful integration requires more than technology. The thesis emphasizes the need for:
Transparent governance and shared decision-making
Standardized evaluation tools and comprehensive economic analysis
Targeted training and workforce supports
Multidisciplinary collaboration between clinical, laboratory, and operational teams
A coordinated provincial policy framework
This research forms the foundation of my consulting practice. I help healthcare organizations, laboratories, and policymakers navigate the complex decisions around diagnostic technology adoption, turning evidence into practical, sustainable strategies that improve patient access and system performance.