Current status and future prospects of point-of-care testing around the globe.

In the past half-century, routine central laboratory testing has become increasingly automated and efficient. The majority of clinical chemistry, immunochemistry and hematology testing are performed using high throughput instrumentation, with sophisticated automation. Microbiology, immunohematology and molecular diagnostic testing are also becoming increasingly automated. Recent challenges in healthcare demand new diagnostic solutions worldwide. Point-of-care testing (POCT) offers considerable advantages over central laboratory testing, such as fast and simple specimen handling, and simpler sample requirement (no additives and mostly blood from finger stick; and urine). No transportation is required, and POCT delivers short turnaround time of approximately 5-15 min. In recent years, POCT has gained ground worldwide. In advanced healthcare systems, POCT may be beneficial if health or cost-benefits can be established. In resource-poor countries, POCT may be the only means of delivering advanced testing for epidemiologically important diseases, such as tuberculosis of HIV infection.