How to develop an effective decentralized laboratory testing program

In this article, we offer practical guidelines for developing an effective decentralized laboratory testing (DLT) program. Based on more than 10 years of experience with a DLT program for bedside blood glucose monitoring, we have identified eight essential steps in this process, including: developing an effective multidisciplinary DLT committee that oversees the various DLT programs; performing a needs analysis and a cost analysis as part of the application for approval of a program from the DLT committee; instrument selection and method evaluation; and, finally, implementing a DLT program including initiating a quality assurance program. A collaborative effort by everyone from the beginning is an important key to success.