Exploring challenges and policy considerations in point-of-care testing for hospital preparedness ahead of infectious disease emergencies: A qualitative study.

Background: Despite the uncertainty raised by several studies regarding the practicality of Point-of-Care Testing (POCT) in hospital settings, the urgency prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic led many hospitals to invest in these rapid diagnostics. As the COVID-19 pandemic showcased the potential of POCT in emergency situations, an urgent call arises to leverage the successes and lessons learned for the long-term benefit of healthcare systems, particularly in preparation for the next pandemic of viral respiratory nature.

Methods: We conducted semi-structured interviews with nine emergency care and hospital laboratory stakeholders with expertise and responsibility over POCT operations within hospital systems during the COVID-19 pandemic in Maryland, USA.