The article discusses the current state and future directions of microfluidic lab-on-a-chip technologies, highlighting their potential to revolutionize clinical diagnostics and translational research. Despite significant advancements, these technologies have not fully realized their promise due to technical, economic, and cultural challenges. Key issues include high costs, lack of standardization, and misalignment of incentives among stakeholders. The authors propose several solutions, such as improving device design to better mimic in vivo conditions, standardizing fabrication processes, enhancing usability, and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. They also emphasize the need for regulatory and reimbursement support to ensure broader adoption in clinical settings. The article concludes by outlining steps to accelerate the translation of microfluidic technologies from the laboratory to clinical use, including market research, regulatory engagement, and user-centric design.The article discusses the current state and future directions of microfluidic lab-on-a-chip technologies, highlighting their potential to revolutionize clinical diagnostics and translational research. Despite significant advancements, these technologies have not fully realized their promise due to technical, economic, and cultural challenges. Key issues include high costs, lack of standardization, and misalignment of incentives among stakeholders. The authors propose several solutions, such as improving device design to better mimic in vivo conditions, standardizing fabrication processes, enhancing usability, and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. They also emphasize the need for regulatory and reimbursement support to ensure broader adoption in clinical settings. The article concludes by outlining steps to accelerate the translation of microfluidic technologies from the laboratory to clinical use, including market research, regulatory engagement, and user-centric design.