Evidence based approach to implementing point of care testing (POCT) methods and practices in the Philippines

Point of care tests (POCT) are performed using portable devices at the location of the patient and outside the main laboratory. It has the major advantage of shorter turn-around time and potential benefit for the patient. Stages of POCT development and implementation are still variable among institutions. Hence, this study was conducted to gather information on the status of POCT implementation in the Philippines. A descriptive design on the implementation and quality management methods and practices of POCT at different government and private hospitals was utilized in this study. Data were collected using an online questionnaire and responses were validated by an interview. Different practices in the implementation of POCT resulted in variations and inconsistencies from different healthcare institutions were identified. Seven Quality Systems Essentials (QSE) namely equipment, preanalytical process control, analytical process control, post analytical process control, external assessment, internal assessment, and occurrence management were significantly impacted by the presences or absence of a POCT Coordinator. In general, better adherence to QSEs were noted in institutions with POCT coordinators. A national policy on POCT is necessary to have a standardized and harmonized method and practices of POCT implementation in the Philippines.

Keywords – near patient testing, point of care testing, quality system essential