The Division of Point of Care (POC) Testing and Outreach Laboratories, directed by Amy S. Fox, MD, MS, is responsible for all near-patient testing performed throughout the Montefiore Network.
Available assays include both waived and non-waived testing at over 300 patient locations. Testing is performed by staff trained and deemed competent through a certification process overseen by the Division. All regulatory aspects of testing (Quality Control, Quality Assurance, Proficiency) are overseen by Dr. Fox and her team. Fifteen different tests are currently included in the test menu, ranging in complexity from waived urinalysis on instrumentation to non-waived coagulation testing in the Operating Room. The Point of Care team trains and certifies more than 5,000 licensed employees annually who are eligible to perform on-site testing.
In collaboration with clinical colleagues, the POC team has been instrumental in the evaluation of new Point of Care tests for the FDA and in assessing the capabilities of new methodologies in early phases of development for industry partners. In addition, current platforms have been evaluated for their accuracy, clinical outcomes and cost effectiveness.
The integration of Point of Care testing into a diverse clinical network is of particular research interest. The Montefiore network includes hospitals, clinics, practices, urgent care centers and schools, providing a diverse landscape for clinical research into optimization of healthcare delivery. Collaborations with clinical colleagues, basic scientists and industry are welcome.