Point-of-care testing (POCT) is a type of diagnostic testing that can be performed at or near the site of patient care, such as in a doctor’s office, clinic, or hospital ward. This type of testing provides rapid results, allowing healthcare providers to make quick decisions about patient care.

In the context of diabetes, POCT can be used to measure a person’s blood glucose levels using a handheld glucose meter or device. POCT is often used by people with diabetes to monitor their blood glucose levels at home, but it can also be used in clinical settings to make rapid treatment decisions or to screen for diabetes.

POCT devices typically use a small amount of blood obtained through a finger prick, and the results are available within minutes. POCT devices are generally considered to be accurate, but there may be some variability in results depending on factors such as user error or device calibration.

Overall, POCT can be a useful tool in the diagnosis and management of diabetes, but it should always be used in conjunction with clinical judgement and other diagnostic tests as needed.