Strategic Institutionalization of Point-of-care Testing in Response to a Super-aged Society: Focusing on the Role of Clinical Laboratory Scientist

As South Korea entered a super-aged society in 2024, the diagnostic needs among older adults with chronic conditions have sharply increased. This study examines the institutionalization of point-of-care testing (POCT) as a strategic response and proposes a policy framework suited to the Korean context. A review of domestic and international laws, guidelines, and case studies identified key gaps in Korea’s POCT governance, including operator qualifications, quality assurance (QA/QC), training standards, and legal responsibility. Despite growing clinical adoption, Korea lacks a cohesive regulatory system, raising concerns over diagnostic accuracy and patient safety. In contrast, advanced countries have established integrated governance with centralized oversight, national QA/QC protocols, user certification, and reimbursement models. Based on these findings, this paper proposes nine strategic policy domains, including legal definitions, regulatory revisions, standardized infrastructure, reimbursement strategies, national QA/QC systems, data integration with EMRs, standardized training, pilot programs, and continuous policy monitoring. The framework emphasizes inclusive governance and long-term sustainability. The institutionalization of POCT through a robust legal and administrative foundation is essential to address Korea’s aging population and evolving healthcare landscape, and it promises a brighter future for healthcare in Korea.