Point-of-Care Technology Research Network: An evolving model for collaborative translational research in biomedical engineering

As the healthcare system evolves from a centralized, hospital- and office-based model to an emphasis on patient-centric care delivered in decentralized settings from the community and/or home to low resource settings domestically and internationally, some Point-of-Care Technologies (POCT) have become important and others may soon become important in facilitating care. These portable diagnostic and monitoring devices enable moving care closer to the patient. We review recent developments in a national model to accelerate the development of POCT, specifically the Point-of-Care Technology Research Network (POCTRN), comprising a multi-center scientific network supported by a coordinating center. We summarize the history of the Network, and then describe the primary objectives and key activities of the Network and highlight the role of a new coordinating center providing administrative and infrastructure support. POCTRN is committed to building evidence-based best practices for high-quality translation and commercialization in biomedical engineering to maximize clinical impact of Point-of-Care Technologies.