Point-of-care testing (POCT) is gaining popularity as a means to perform laboratory tests closer to the patient, offering several advantages such as accessibility, portability, speed, and convenience. However, it also poses limitations, including lower accuracy and reliability compared to traditional laboratory tests, quality control issues, high dependence on operators, and regulatory challenges. The paper discusses the state-of-the-art in POCT, its current applications, advantages, and potential limitations, as well as future perspectives. Key topics include emerging technologies like continuous glucose monitoring and nucleic acid testing, the role of POCT in critical care, disaster situations, infectious diseases, cardiovascular diseases, coagulation testing, and molecular and genetic diagnostics. The paper emphasizes the importance of quality management systems, professional training, and certification to ensure the reliability and accuracy of POCT results. Additionally, it highlights the need for standardized protocols and regulatory oversight to address the challenges and opportunities presented by POCT in various clinical settings.Point-of-care testing (POCT) is gaining popularity as a means to perform laboratory tests closer to the patient, offering several advantages such as accessibility, portability, speed, and convenience. However, it also poses limitations, including lower accuracy and reliability compared to traditional laboratory tests, quality control issues, high dependence on operators, and regulatory challenges. The paper discusses the state-of-the-art in POCT, its current applications, advantages, and potential limitations, as well as future perspectives. Key topics include emerging technologies like continuous glucose monitoring and nucleic acid testing, the role of POCT in critical care, disaster situations, infectious diseases, cardiovascular diseases, coagulation testing, and molecular and genetic diagnostics. The paper emphasizes the importance of quality management systems, professional training, and certification to ensure the reliability and accuracy of POCT results. Additionally, it highlights the need for standardized protocols and regulatory oversight to address the challenges and opportunities presented by POCT in various clinical settings.