South Africa and Europe Point-of-Care-Testing (POCT) Market Size, Share and Trends Analysis Report – Industry Overview and Forecast to 2032

Point-of-Care-Testing (POCT) Market Size

• The South Africa and Europe point-of-care-testing (POCT) market size was valued at USD 10.22 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 20.84 billion by 2032, at a CAGR of 9.30% during the forecast period
• The market growth is largely fueled by the increasing demand for rapid, on-site diagnostic testing and the need for immediate clinical decision-making, driving the adoption of Point-of-Care Testing (POCT) solutions across hospitals, clinics, and remote healthcare settings
• Furthermore, advancements in portable, easy-to-use, and highly accurate diagnostic devices are enhancing the efficiency and reliability of POCT, enabling healthcare professionals to deliver timely results and improve patient outcomes

Point-of-Care-Testing (POCT) Market Analysis

• Point-of-Care-Testing (POCT) plays a critical role in delivering rapid diagnostic results at or near the site of patient care, enabling timely clinical decisions and improving healthcare outcomes in both hospital and community settings
• The escalating demand for Point-of-Care-Testing (POCT) is primarily driven by the need for faster diagnostics, increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, and the push for decentralized healthcare services
• Germany dominated the South Africa and Europe point-of-care-testing (POCT) market with the largest revenue share of 49.19% in 2024, attributed to the growing adoption of advanced diagnostic devices, well-established healthcare infrastructure, and strong government support for expanding access to rapid testing services. The country has witnessed significant uptake in hospitals, clinics, and mobile testing units, driven by increasing awareness and demand for timely healthcare solutions
• Germany is expected to be the fastest-growing region in the point-of-care-testing (POCT) market during the forecast period, with an estimated CAGR from 2025 to 2032, supported by rising investments in innovative diagnostic technologies, increasing focus on personalized medicine, and the expansion of home healthcare solutions across the region
• The over-the-counter (OTC) testing segment dominated the South Africa and Europe point-of-care-testing (POCT) market with a revenue share of 61.2% in 2024, reflecting growing consumer preference for self-testing and home-based diagnostics in both South Africa and Europe

Report Scope and Point-of-Care-Testing (POCT) Market Segmentation

Point-of-Care-Testing (POCT) Market Trends

Enhanced Efficiency and Rapid Diagnostics

• A significant and accelerating trend in the South Africa and Europe Point-of-Care-Testing (POCT) market is the increasing adoption of rapid diagnostic technologies that allow healthcare providers to deliver immediate results at or near the patient site. This capability is significantly enhancing workflow efficiency and enabling timely clinical decision-making
  • For instance, hospitals and clinics in South Africa are increasingly deploying portable POCT devices for infectious disease screening, cardiac markers, and glucose monitoring, reducing reliance on centralized laboratory testing and minimizing delays in diagnosis
• In Europe, mobile and decentralized POCT units are being integrated into outpatient clinics, emergency care centers, and rural healthcare facilities, allowing for faster turnaround times, early detection, and improved patient management
• The availability of highly sensitive, user-friendly, and compact POCT devices facilitates efficient testing in diverse clinical settings, supporting healthcare providers in delivering accurate diagnostics while reducing operational bottlenecks
• This trend towards decentralized testing and real-time diagnostics is fundamentally reshaping patient care, with hospitals and clinics increasingly relying on POCT to enhance patient outcomes, reduce hospital stays, and streamline treatment plans
• Consequently, healthcare organizations are expanding investments in POCT solutions, focusing on broad coverage for critical diagnostic areas such as infectious diseases, cardiac health, and chronic disease management
• The demand for Point-of-Care-Testing (POCT) solutions continues to grow rapidly across South Africa and Europe, driven by rising patient volumes, the need for timely intervention, and increasing healthcare infrastructure development in both urban and rural areas

Point-of-Care-Testing (POCT) Market Dynamics

Driver

Growing Need Due to Rising Demand for Rapid Diagnostics

• The increasing demand for rapid, on-site diagnostic testing in hospitals, clinics, and remote healthcare settings is a significant driver for the heightened adoption of Point-of-Care-Testing (POCT). Healthcare providers are seeking faster turnaround times to improve patient outcomes and optimize clinical decision-making
  • For instance, in April 2024, Abbott Laboratories announced the launch of an advanced POCT device for infectious disease detection, designed to deliver results in under 15 minutes. Such innovations by key companies are expected to drive growth in the POCT industry over the forecast period
• As healthcare facilities prioritize faster diagnosis, POCT devices enable timely detection of critical conditions such as cardiac events, infectious diseases, and metabolic disorders, allowing physicians to make immediate interventions and improve patient care
• Furthermore, the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases and the need for continuous patient monitoring are positioning POCT as an essential tool in both primary care and specialized medical settings
• The convenience of decentralized testing, rapid reporting of results, and integration with hospital information systems are key factors propelling the adoption of POCT across hospitals, diagnostic centers, and outpatient facilities. The trend toward portable and user-friendly POCT devices further contributes to market growth

Restraint/Challenge

Challenges Due to High Costs and Regulatory Compliance

• The relatively high initial cost of advanced point-of-care-testing (POCT) systems can be a barrier for smaller clinics or budget-conscious healthcare providers, limiting widespread adoption in developing regions
• In addition, strict regulatory requirements and compliance standards for medical diagnostics pose challenges for manufacturers and users, requiring adherence to quality assurance, validation protocols, and local approval processes
• Addressing these challenges through cost-effective device design, standardized testing procedures, and support for regulatory approvals is crucial for sustained market growth
• The complexity of device maintenance, calibration requirements, and the need for trained personnel can also limit adoption in resource-limited settings
• While technological advancements are gradually reducing costs and simplifying operation, the perceived expense and operational requirements can still hinder uptake, particularly among smaller healthcare providers or community clinics
• Overcoming these challenges through streamlined regulatory support, affordable pricing models, and enhanced training programs will be vital to expanding the Point-of-Care-Testing (POCT) market across South Africa and Europe
• Furthermore, ongoing research to develop multi-analyte POCT devices and more robust, portable systems is expected to drive further adoption and reduce operational bottlenecks in healthcare delivery
• Increased collaboration between manufacturers and healthcare providers for localized implementation and support will also play a key role in sustaining growth in the POCT market

Point-of-Care-Testing (POCT) Market Scope

The market is segmented on the basis of product type, application, prescription mode, platform, end user, and distribution channel.

• By Product Type

On the basis of product type, the point-of-care-testing (POCT) market is segmented into glucose monitoring products, infectious disease testing products, cardiometabolic monitoring products, pregnancy and fertility testing products, hematology testing products, coagulation monitoring products, drugs-of-abuse (DOA) testing products, urinalysis testing products, cholesterol testing products, tumor/cancer marker testing products, fecal occult testing products, and others. The glucose monitoring products segment dominated the market with a revenue share of 32.4% in 2024, driven by the rising prevalence of diabetes across both South Africa and Europe. The segment benefits from growing awareness about self-monitoring of blood glucose, increased adoption in hospitals, clinics, and home care settings, and the availability of advanced continuous glucose monitoring devices. Healthcare professionals recommend glucose monitoring products to improve patient compliance, prevent complications, and provide real-time data for therapy adjustments. Additionally, government healthcare initiatives and awareness programs in Europe and South Africa are contributing to strong adoption of these products. Glucose monitoring is widely considered essential for chronic disease management, making this segment the backbone of POCT in these regions.

The infectious disease testing products segment is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 14.8% from 2025 to 2032, driven by the growing demand for rapid diagnostic tests to detect diseases such as COVID-19, influenza, hepatitis, and other communicable infections. Rising public awareness about early detection and disease control has led to increased adoption of point-of-care infectious disease tests. Innovations in rapid antigen, molecular, and immunoassay-based diagnostic kits are further supporting this growth. Hospitals, clinics, and home care settings are increasingly relying on these products for timely detection, reducing the burden on centralized laboratories. Furthermore, the need for decentralized testing in remote areas of South Africa and Europe, combined with expanded healthcare infrastructure, supports accelerated market growth. The segment also benefits from collaborations between diagnostic companies and government health programs to ensure rapid and accurate testing.

• By Application

On the basis of application, the point-of-care-testing (POCT) market is segmented into blood glucose, cardiac monitoring, hematology coagulation, whole blood analysis, vital sign monitoring, non-invasive SpO2 monitoring, non-invasive PCO2 monitoring, blood transfusion, and others. The blood glucose segment accounted for the largest market revenue share of 35.6% in 2024, driven by increasing prevalence of diabetes in both South Africa and Europe. The segment benefits from home-based self-monitoring adoption, clinic-based diagnostics, and integration with remote patient monitoring programs. Blood glucose monitoring supports effective diabetes management and improves patient outcomes by allowing timely adjustments in therapy. Health authorities and awareness campaigns encourage individuals to monitor glucose levels regularly. The convenience of home-based testing has further boosted adoption in Europe, where patients prefer minimal clinic visits. Technological advancements, such as continuous glucose monitoring and smartphone integration, also enhance patient adherence and the overall utility of glucose monitoring products.

The cardiac monitoring segment is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 13.5% from 2025 to 2032, driven by rising cardiovascular disease prevalence in South Africa and Europe. Increasing awareness about early detection of heart-related conditions, such as arrhythmias, myocardial infarction, and hypertension, is encouraging adoption of cardiac POCT devices. Hospitals and clinics are integrating compact cardiac monitoring solutions to provide rapid, accurate, and actionable results. The demand for non-invasive, easy-to-use devices that can monitor heart function at home or in outpatient settings is accelerating growth. Technological advancements, including wearable cardiac monitors and mobile app integration, are further supporting market expansion. In addition, government healthcare initiatives and increasing investments in cardiovascular care infrastructure contribute to higher adoption rates.

• By Prescription Mode

On the basis of prescription mode, the point-of-care-testing (POCT) market is segmented into prescription-based testing and over-the-counter testing. The over-the-counter (OTC) testing segment dominated with a revenue share of 61.2% in 2024, reflecting growing consumer preference for self-testing and home-based diagnostics in both South Africa and Europe. OTC testing offers convenience, privacy, and immediate results, which are particularly valuable for managing chronic conditions and routine monitoring. The segment is also supported by rising awareness campaigns, easy accessibility through pharmacies, and online retail channels. OTC POCT solutions are available for glucose monitoring, infectious disease testing, and fertility monitoring, among others. Regulatory approvals and safety guidelines have further enhanced trust in OTC devices. Home care and retail adoption trends continue to drive consistent revenue growth. Healthcare providers often recommend OTC testing as a supplementary tool to professional diagnostics.

The prescription-based testing segment is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 12.7% from 2025 to 2032, driven by hospital and clinic-based POCT adoption. Prescription-based testing ensures accurate, regulated, and clinically supervised diagnostics for complex conditions. Hospitals rely on these devices for critical care and inpatient monitoring. The segment also benefits from reimbursement policies, clinical guidelines, and professional recommendations supporting POCT use. Advanced diagnostics requiring regulatory oversight, such as molecular testing, immunoassays, and coagulation testing, contribute to the segment’s rapid growth. Growing investments in healthcare infrastructure across Europe and South Africa further expand market potential.

• By Platform

On the basis of platform, the point-of-care-testing (POCT) market is segmented into lateral flow assays/immunochromatography tests, dipsticks, molecular diagnostics, immunoassays, microfluidics, clinical chemistry assays, hematology, and others. The lateral flow assays/immunochromatography tests segment held the largest market revenue share of 38.1% in 2024, supported by their simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and rapid results. These tests are widely used in both clinical and home care settings, including infectious disease diagnostics and chronic disease monitoring. The popularity of lateral flow platforms is further reinforced by ease of use, minimal training requirements, and rapid adoption in point-of-care environments. Large-scale screening programs in Europe and public health initiatives in South Africa are contributing to the dominance of this segment. The versatility of lateral flow assays makes them a first choice for hospitals, laboratories, and home users alike. Continuous technological improvements, such as higher sensitivity and multiplexing capability, further strengthen market share.

The molecular diagnostics segment is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 15.2% from 2025 to 2032, driven by demand for highly accurate and rapid testing. PCR-based and isothermal amplification techniques, along with multiplex platforms, enable precise detection of infectious agents and genetic markers. Laboratories and hospitals are increasingly adopting molecular POCT devices to ensure timely interventions. Investments in research, government initiatives for disease surveillance, and technological innovations in molecular diagnostics support accelerated growth. Molecular platforms are particularly favored for complex or high-stakes testing where speed and accuracy are critical.

• By End User

On the basis of end user, the point-of-care-testing (POCT) market is segmented into clinics, home care, hospitals, laboratories, ambulatory surgery centers, and others. The hospitals segment dominated the market with a revenue share of 42.7% in 2024, driven by the need for rapid diagnostics in critical care, emergency, and inpatient settings. Hospitals rely on advanced POCT devices to support timely treatment decisions and improve patient outcomes. This segment benefits from high patient volumes, integration of advanced monitoring systems, and regulatory requirements mandating accurate and quick testing. Hospitals remain the primary buyers due to structured procurement processes and higher budgets. South Africa and Europe’s hospital systems emphasize speed, accuracy, and compliance, supporting dominance. Continuous technological upgrades further reinforce adoption in this end-user segment.

The home care segment is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 14.3% from 2025 to 2032, driven by the growing trend of self-monitoring and home-based diagnostics for chronic diseases. Consumers increasingly prefer convenient, reliable, and easy-to-use POCT devices to reduce clinic visits. Remote patient monitoring programs, smartphone integration, and user-friendly interfaces contribute to adoption. Home care users benefit from direct access to results, timely management of conditions, and cost savings. Market growth is further supported by the expansion of retail and online channels. Additionally, rising awareness campaigns and healthcare initiatives in both South Africa and Europe are encouraging more patients to adopt home care POCT solutions, further accelerating market growth and fostering improved patient outcomes.

• By Distribution Channel

On the basis of distribution channel, the point-of-care-testing (POCT) market is segmented into direct tender, retail sales, online sales, and others. The direct tender segment accounted for the largest market revenue share of 44.5% in 2024, fueled by bulk procurement by hospitals, government programs, and public health initiatives. Direct tenders ensure standardization, consistent supply, and quality assurance across healthcare facilities. The segment supports large-scale adoption and integration of POCT systems in hospitals, clinics, and public programs. South Africa and Europe rely on direct tender channels for organized procurement and regulatory compliance. The segment’s dominance is strengthened by structured agreements between suppliers and healthcare authorities, long-term contracts, and institutional partnerships.

The online sales segment is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 13.8% from 2025 to 2032, driven by increasing e-commerce penetration and convenience for home users. Consumers prefer online purchases for access to OTC devices, home care kits, and smaller diagnostic equipment. Online sales also allow suppliers to reach remote areas efficiently and reduce distribution costs. Digital marketing, easy payment solutions, and doorstep delivery contribute to rapid adoption. Online sales platforms offer reviews, product comparisons, and tutorials, enhancing user confidence and driving growth. Furthermore, growing smartphone penetration and the popularity of mobile apps for healthcare products are facilitating faster adoption of online POCT purchases in South Africa and Europe.

Point-of-Care-Testing (POCT) Market Regional Analysis

• Germany is expected to be the fastest-growing country in the point-of-care-testing (POCT) market during the forecast period, with a projected CAGR of from 2025 to 2032
• Growth is driven by rising investments in innovative diagnostic technologies, increasing focus on personalized medicine, and expansion of home healthcare solutions across the region. Hospitals, clinics, and homecare services are rapidly adopting connected POCT devices to enhance patient care and operational efficiency
• Awareness campaigns and government support for early disease detection further boost market adoption. The region also benefits from strong healthcare infrastructure and advanced laboratory networks, which facilitate integration of POCT devices into routine care

Germany Point-of-Care-Testing (POCT) Market Insight

The Germany point-of-care-testing is the leading country in for POCT adoption with share of 49.19%, driven by decentralized and patient-centric testing solutions. Hospitals, diagnostic centers, and homecare providers leverage POCT platforms for rapid screening, chronic disease monitoring, and emergency diagnostics. Government initiatives, robust healthcare infrastructure, and technological innovation support adoption. Integration of POCT devices with electronic health records and telemedicine platforms further accelerates growth. Rising awareness of convenient, cost-effective diagnostics reinforces Germany’s dominant position in Europe.

South Africa Point-of-Care-Testing (POCT) Market Insight

The South Africa point-of-care-testing dominated the African POCT market with the largest revenue share in 2024, due to the growing adoption of advanced diagnostic devices, well-established healthcare infrastructure, and strong government support for expanding access to rapid testing services. Hospitals, clinics, and mobile testing units have witnessed significant uptake, driven by increasing awareness and demand for timely healthcare solutions. Public-private partnerships, training programs, and technological adoption strengthen market penetration. Integration with laboratory networks and electronic health systems enhances efficiency and reporting accuracy.

Point-of-Care-Testing (POCT) Market Share

The Point-of-Care-Testing (POCT) industry is primarily led by well-established companies, including:

• F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd. (Switzerland)
• Siemens Healthineers AG (Germany)
• Werfen (Spain)
• Sysmex Europe SE (Germany)
• Danaher Corporation (U.S.)
• Quidel Corporation (U.S.)
• LumiraDx (U.K.)
• BD (U.S.)
• Abbott Laboratories (U.S.)
• Nova Biomedical (U.S.)
• Abaxis (U.S.)
• Trividia Health, Inc. (U.S.)
• Sekisui Diagnostics (U.S.)
• Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (U.S.)
• EKF Diagnostics (U.K.)
• Trinity Biotech (Ireland)
• Chembio Diagnostics, Inc. (U.S.)
• PTS Diagnostics (U.S.)
• binx health, inc. (U.S.)
• QuantuMDx Group Ltd. (U.K.)

Latest Developments in South Africa and Europe Point-of-Care-Testing (POCT) Market

• In June 2024, Qiagen, a diagnostics company, announced its target for 7% annual sales growth (adjusted for currency) until 2028, focusing on lab testing machines for infections and cancer as part of its post-pandemic strategy. The company also outlined a goal to increase its adjusted operating income margin to at least 31% by 2028, up from 26.9% in 2023. CEO Thierry Bernard indicated that achieving this growth would mean taking market share, as their market grows between 4% and 6%. Key areas of focus include genetic testing machines, PCR-based diagnostics, and tests for various infectious diseases and cancer. Qiagen plans to discontinue unprofitable products, such as certain test machines, to improve margins. It has already raised its 2024 adjusted earnings-per-share target and continues reviewing other low-margin products
• In March 2023, Qiagen announced a collaboration with Sophia Genetics on next-generation sequencing (NGS) kits. This partnership aims to increase the compatibility of its NGS kits with third-party digital data-sharing and analytics companies. The alliance is part of Qiagen's Qiqseq platform partnership program and is planned to be expanded to other areas of analysis
• In January 2023, Qiagen acquired DNA-biometrics firm Verogen in a USD150-million cash deal, strengthening its forensics portfolio. The deal builds on the companies' existing partnership from 2021, under which Qiagen had the rights to distribute some of Verogen's products such as its next-generation gene sequencing panels and genetic code analyzing technology GEDmatch. Qiagen expects about USD20 million of sales from the Verogen portfolio in the year following the acquisition
• In February 2022, Qiagen projected 2022 net sales of at least USD2.07 billion and adjusted earnings per share of at least USD2.05 at constant exchange rates. The company anticipated a significant decline in COVID-19 product sales but expected double-digit growth in its non-COVID product category on a currency-adjusted basis. Analysts on average were expecting sales of USD2.05 billion and profit of USD2.03 per share

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