The Structural Evolution of Point-of-Care Diagnostic Adoption in Lagos Private Hospitals

Abstract

The adoption of Point-of-Care Testing (POCT) in Lagos private hospitals reflects a structural shift from centralized to decentralized diagnostics.Drawing on professional observation in the Lagos private healthcare ecosystem (2022-2024), this paper examines how economic instability, infrastructural fragility, and organizational behavior have shaped the trajectory of POCT deployment.The analysis highlights that while POCT devices can improve clinical decision-making and patient outcomes, their sustainable integration hinges on Health Technology Management (HTM), institutional leadership, and policy-driven financing models.The paper concludes with recommendations for stabilizing the diagnostic ecosystem through currencyanchored procurement, frugal device design, and strengthened public-private collaboration.