Renal point-of-care testing: collaboration between biomedical scientists and community pharmacists

The incidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is increasing with the prevalence of obesity, diabetes mellitus, elevated blood pressure and other cardiovascular-renal risk factors. Wider point-of-care testing (POCT) strategies in the community setting are needed to prevent CKD and delay progressive loss of renal function. Since publication of the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) Point of Care Testing (Near-Patient Testing) Guidance on the Involvement of the Clinical Laboratory, the biomedical scientist can now provide enhanced services including tests for blood glucose, cholesterol, and monitor blood pressure. Under the current pharmacy contract, community pharmacies are now often equipped with sophisticated record access systems and interfaces to monitor drug interactions in suspect/high-risk CKD patients. Current facilities can be utilised further allowing pharmacists more clinical involvement based on community need. Further development of POCT in the community involving collaborations between biomedical scientists and community pharmacists would allow wider service availability in primary care and might be advantageous in suspect/high-risk patients.