This topic will provide a basic introduction to the theory and practice of point-of-care pathology testing (POCT) which is now used by a wide range of health professionals. It will describe analytical, physiological, clinical, and technological aspects of POCT devices and illustrate the broad range of devices that are currently available in Australia to perform POCT. The principles of how to choose a POCT device, which is fit for purpose, and how to establish and manage a POCT service will also be covered. The evidence base for the effectiveness of POCT for the prevention and management of chronic, acute and infectious disease will be discussed. Case studies illustrating working POCT models in Australia and clinical case studies will be given, particularly focussing in rural community settings. Students will gain hands-on experience in operating devices.
This topic aims to:
Timetable details for 2021 are no longer published.