Original Title: Anvendelse af Point-of-care test (POCT) til ældre patienter i eget hjem

Authors' recommendations: The analysis assessed the diagnostic accuracy of POCT for CRP, leukocytes, sodium, potassium, and creatinine in the home setting. No evidence was identified supporting the use of CRP or leukocyte POCT to detect infection, and the evidence for sodium, potassium, and creatinine in detecting dehydration is very limited. As a result, it is not possible to determine the diagnostic accuracy of these tests when used in citizens’ homes, and the analysis cannot support or oppose the use of POCT for detecting infection and dehydration. Patient-relevant outcomes were not part of the analysis and therefore cannot inform any conclusions about POCT’s effects on citizens or the healthcare system. Organisational findings highlight the need for systematic quality assurance, including selection, validation, ongoing control, user training, support, and IT-integration of POCT equipment. The Council emphasises the need for clinical outcome documentation when POCT is used in the home. It also notes that the upcoming Danish healthcare reform and establishment of health councils will change the organisational context in which national quality standards are implemented. Finally, the Council is aware that increased availability of POCT may lead to overuse, overtreatment, and higher costs.

Project Status: Completed

URL for project: https://www.sundk.dk/vurderinger/find-afsluttede-vurderinger/

Year Published: 2025

URL for published report: 2025

English language abstract: There is no English language summary available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: Denmark

Organisation Name: The Danish Health Technology Council

Contact Address: Niels Jernes Vej 6a, 9220 Aalborg