What Is Point-Of-Care Testing? How Pharmacies Are Evolving
Posted by Total Pharmacy Supply on Oct 3rd 2022
Pharmacies have been around for centuries, and their primary focus has always been to dispense medication. However, in recent years, pharmacies have begun to evolve into more patient-centric organizations. One of the ways this is happening is through the increased use of point-of-care testing. This type of testing allows pharmacists to quickly and easily test patients for a variety of conditions right in the pharmacy. In this blog post, we will discuss what point-of-care testing is and how it's changing the pharmacy landscape!
What Is Point-Of-Care Testing?
Point-of-care testing is a type of medical testing that is performed at the site of patient care. This can be done in a variety of settings, but it is most commonly seen in pharmacies. This type of testing became increasingly popular during the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.
There are many benefits to point-of-care testing. One of the most significant advantages is that it allows pharmacists to catch conditions early and provide treatment sooner. This can lead to better health outcomes for patients and lower overall costs for the healthcare system. Point-of-care testing is also convenient for patients. They can get tested and receive treatment all in one trip to the pharmacy.
Some tests that are currently done at pharmacies can include:
- Blood sugar testing
- Cholesterol testing
- COVID-19 testing
- Flu testing
- Pregnancy testing
As point-of-care testing becomes more widespread, we will likely see an increase in the types of tests that are offered at pharmacies. This could include tests for a variety of conditions, such as HIV, influenza, and strep throat.
How Is Point-Of-Care Testing Changing Pharmacies?
Point-of-care testing is changing pharmacies in a number of ways. First, it is causing pharmacies to become more patient-centric. In the past, pharmacies were primarily focused on dispensing medication. However, with the increased use of point-of-care testing, pharmacists are now able to provide a wider range of services to their patients. This includes everything from testing for conditions to providing guidance on treatment options.
Another way that point-of-care testing is changing pharmacies is by increasing the role of pharmacists in the healthcare system. In the past, pharmacists were often seen as experts on medication. However, with the increased use of point-of-care testing, pharmacists are now recognized as experts in patient care. This is leading to more opportunities for pharmacists to be involved in patient care decisions and to have a greater impact on the overall healthcare system.
How Can You Institute Point-Of-Care Testing At Your Pharmacy?
If you are interested in instituting point-of-care testing at your pharmacy, there are a few things you need to do. First, you need to find a point-of-care testing system that meets your needs. There are many different types of point-of-care testing systems on the market, so it is important to find one that is right for your pharmacy.
Some systems you may want to look into include:
- ID Now COVID-19
- Alere iCassette
- BD Veritor Plus System
- Cepheid GeneXpert Systems
- Cue Health
- Hologic Panther Fusion
- Quidel Sofia SARS Antigen FIA
- Roche Cobas Liat PCR System
- Thermo Fisher Scientific QuantStudio 12K Flex Real-Time PCR
Once you have selected a point-of-care testing system, you need to train your staff on how to use it. This includes both pharmacists and technicians. It is important that everyone is properly trained on how to use the system before you start offering tests to patients.
Finally, you need to promote point-of-care testing at your pharmacy. You can do this by letting your patients know that you offer point-of-care testing and by providing information on the benefits of this type of testing. You may also want to consider partnering with local doctors and clinics to promote point-of-care testing in your community.
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Instituting point-of-care testing at your pharmacy can be a great way to improve patient care and to increase the role of pharmacists in the healthcare system. By offering this type of testing, you can provide better care for your patients and have a greater impact on the overall healthcare system.
This is why point-of-care testing is becoming an increasingly popular option for pharmacies, not only because it provides more comprehensive care for patients, but also because it helps to lower costs for the healthcare system as a whole. In addition, point-of-care testing is also becoming more widespread due to the increasing availability of point-of-care testing systems.