Laboratory testing closer to the patient: the Canadian scene

Laboratory testing closer to the patient in Canada takes several forms. Driving forces include the expectation that this technology will result in improved patient care. Geographic remoteness of large parts of the country is another factor, as is the critical shortage of certain clinical specialists such as neonatologists. Increasingly, the medical, scientific and technical professions are guiding--if not always controlling--the process. The Canadian Council on Health Facility Accreditation is developing new guidelines which will assist in ensuring that laboratory personnel are intimately involved in the organisation and control of bedside monitoring. The Federal Bureau of Radiation and Medical Devices, as well as hospital-based professionals, have been very active in the assessment of devices used for this emerging technology.