Explore Lab Services & Blood DrawPoint of Care Testing
Pathology Lab Point of Care Testing
The Point of Care Testing (POCT) program at UConn Health brings laboratory testing directly to patients using handheld instruments and portable diagnostic devices. By using advanced point-of-care technology, healthcare providers can obtain rapid and reliable test results at or near the patient’s bedside, allowing for faster clinical decision-making and timely adjustments to treatment plans.
The POCT department oversees both inpatient and outpatient point-of-care testing services across the health system. POCT results are immediately integrated into the patient’s electronic medical record, enabling seamless communication among healthcare team members and supporting improved patient outcomes. The flexibility and portability of POCT devices offer a broad menu of testing options to meet a wide range of medical needs in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
The POCT department coordinates, oversees, and regulates all waived, non-waived, and provider-performed microscopy (PPM) testing to ensure compliance with state, federal, and independent regulatory standards established under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments. Non-waived testing is accredited by the College of American Pathologists, while waived and PPM testing is regulated by the Joint Commission, reflecting a continued commitment to quality, safety, and excellence in patient care.
Working collaboratively with nursing personnel, physicians, and clinical staff, the POCT team helps ensure accurate testing practices and high-quality patient care throughout all areas of the health system.