Point-Of-Care Diagnostics 2.0: Beyond the Clinic

Point-of-care diagnostics (POCDs) have been essential tools in the rapid detection of biomarkers and analytes, which facilitates better disease diagnosis, monitoring, and management. However, with some exceptions like the pregnancy test kit and glucose test strips, first-generation POCDs have traditionally been reliant on biomarkers that require specialized conditions and trained personnel to handle. First-generation POCDs also offer limited utility in the information they provide, and more follow-up tests are often needed to get more in-depth, actionable information. A new generation of POCDs is emerging that not only enhances what existing POCDs can do, but also offers new diagnostic modalities that are minimally invasive or non-invasive. In addition, POCD 2.0 increasingly allow the layperson to run tests at the convenience of his/her homes and get a rapid assessment, allowing follow-up steps to be taken to address any deviations. This report will assess the maturity of POCD 2.0 and how these diagnostics are playing a role not just in the clinic and in at-home-use for patients, but also among healthy consumers, offering predictive analytics that ensure consumers stay on a healthy path.