The Economics of In-Clinic Testing: A Cost Analysis¶
This white paper examines the economics of in-clinic POCT — the total cost per result, the revenue implications, and the business case for same-visit testing.
Total Cost per Result¶
| Cost element | POCT (in-clinic) | Send-out laboratory |
|---|---|---|
| Instrument amortization | Moderate | None (lab bears it) |
| Reagent/consumable | Per-test | None (billed by lab) |
| Staff time | Minutes | Sample logistics |
| Result turnaround | Same visit | 1–3 days |
The Hidden Cost of Send-Out¶
The visible cost of send-out is the lab fee. The hidden costs are:
- Second visit — results arriving later often require a follow-up appointment.
- Delayed treatment — a wait-and-see approach while awaiting results.
- Lost revenue — the test fee and associated services go to the external lab.
The In-Clinic Value Proposition¶
| Benefit | Business impact |
|---|---|
| Same-visit diagnosis | Immediate treatment → better outcomes |
| Test fee retained | Diagnostic revenue stays in-clinic |
| Monitoring capability | Serial testing (CRP, progesterone) generates repeat visits |
| Client experience | "Answers today" improves satisfaction and retention |
The Break-Even Analysis¶
The break-even point for an in-clinic analyzer depends on test volume. At typical volumes of 5–15 tests/day, the per-test cost of instrument amortization falls below the send-out fee — making in-clinic testing cost-competitive and clinically superior.
FAQ¶
Is in-clinic testing cheaper than a send-out lab? At sufficient volume, the per-result cost is competitive — and the same-visit clinical and revenue benefits tip the balance decisively in favor of in-clinic testing.
What is the most overlooked cost of send-out? The repeat visit and delayed treatment — the hidden costs that don't appear on the lab invoice.
For the technology, see the FICT white paper. For procurement, see the knowledge base B2B resources.
Authored by: Migibio Clinical & Scientific Affairs, Guangzhou Magic Biotech Co., Ltd.
Reviewed by: Migibio R&D Quality Committee
Last updated: 2026-08-13
Disclosure: Migibio (Guangzhou Magic Biotech Co., Ltd.) is the manufacturer of the FIA680/FIA880 analyzers and FICT reagents referenced in this content. See our Editorial & Review Policy.