Point-of-Care Testing (POCT) and the Decentralization of Diagnostics
While the core of German diagnostics remains centralized, Point-of-Care Testing (POCT) has seen a 15% growth in market share by 2026. POCT refers to diagnostic tests performed near the patient, such as in a GP's office, an ambulance, or a pharmacy.
Common POCT applications in Germany include:
Blood Glucose and HbA1c: For immediate diabetes management.
Troponin and D-Dimer: For rapid exclusion of cardiac events or pulmonary embolisms in emergency settings.
CRP and Procalcitonin: To distinguish between viral and bacterial infections, supporting the national "Antibiotic Stewardship" goals. Strict quality control regulations (RiliBÄK Part B) apply to POCT, requiring devices to be regularly calibrated and results to be documented with the same rigor as centralized laboratory data.