Evolution of Point-of-Care Testing in Australia

Currently no mandatory standards or guidelines exist for Point-of-Care Testing (PoCT) in Australia. In 2001, a report on the role and value of 'near patient testing' in general practice outlined work that was required to assist the Australian Government to decide how to manage PoCT. Phillips Fox reported that adoption of mandatory accreditation requirements was not justified by the level of risk associated with PoCT. If implemented appropriately, PoCT could be useful with frontline management of chronic disease, relieving stress on general practice and expanding the reach of pathology. Interim PoCT standards in general practice were developed by a Quality Use of Pathology committee, and formed an accreditation framework for the PoCT in General Practice Trial. This trial concluded that PoCT has a role in supporting the primary healthcare team to manage chronic disease patients. While results of the trial are still being considered, the potential impact of funding PoCT in general practice is being treated as part of the wider review of pathology funding currently taking place in Australia. Although Australia has local models from which to draw experience, it has yet to decide the quality framework it would adopt if it was to roll out PoCT in general practice. The quality framework that Australia adopts for PoCT must achieve high quality pathology results that enhance clinical care.