Instant or Point of Collection (POC)

Overview

POC products are convenient and generally easy to use, but often not as straightforward as they would seem.  There is a very wide variation in the cost, accuracy, ease-of-use, and detection levels of POC tests.  While each manufacturer has their own specifications for using their products, they all generally function very similarly.  One or more drug panels are integrated into a dip-stick, card, lid or some other component that is placed in contact with the specimen.  After a specified period of time, the results are read by the tester or placed in a reader.  Assessing the results often includes a level of subjectivity as testers attempt to decipher the results (e.g. Is there a line?).  Results are generally limited to a positive or negative and specific levels are not available.  The most common and least expensive POC drug tests are urine based, but there are tests available for other specimen types.

Global Drug Testing Services will utilize POC test in specific situations, but generally does not base testing programs on the currently available POC testing technology. The majority of our clients have found the accuracy and more comprehensive testing capabilities of analyzer based tests, including Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA), to be worth the cost differential.  It is also imperative to have trained and certified collections and testing personnel complete the entire testing process and, given the limited cost differential of EIA and the most accurate POC tests, we would rather have our technicians utilize the more accurate and full featured laboratory analyzer-based testing technology.

POC Summary Information