Policy

POCT Policy

When properly incorporated into the patient care process, POCT can translate to faster therapeutic intervention and improved patient care. However, POCT also requires a higher level of supervision, continued training and competency assessment of non-laboratorians, a good quality management system to avoid the pitfalls of improper sample handling and test inaccuracy, and justification of the additional costs of analysers and tests.

To ensure POCT services across all MOH facilities are conducted in accordance with the principles of clinical governance and relevant accreditation standards, National Policy and Guidelines for POCT was established. The latest and second edition of this document was published in 2022. 

All relevant staff in HQE must be familiar with this Policy Directive and must comply to its requirements. Failure by staff undertaking point-of-care testing to adhere to the required protocols, standards of training, record keeping and quality control are not only putting patients at risk but also exposing themselves and the MOH to damaged reputation and potential litigation.