Point-of-Care Testing as an Innovative Approach to Chronic Kidney Disease Identification: Systematic Review

Introduction. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is often underdiagnosed, especially in high-risk populations, despite its major clinical and public health significance. Point-of-care testing (POCT) may improve access to kidney function assessment and support earlier identification of CKD in community and primary care settings. Because current evidence is diverse and fragmented, this systematic review evaluates the role of POCT as an innovative approach to CKD identification. Methods. A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines. PubMed/Medline and EMBASE were searched for articles published between 2006 and 2026 using terms related to point-of-care testing and chronic kidney disease. A total of 27 records were identified and screened by title and abstract. Studies relevant to the use of POCT in CKD identification were included in the qualitative analysis. Results. Thirteen studies were included. The findings suggest that point-of-care testing can support early detection of chronic kidney disease, especially in high-risk and underserved populations. Creatinine-based eGFR and albuminuria tests were the most commonly used approaches. Several studies reported detection of previously unrecognized CKD, although diagnostic performance varied across settings and test types. Conclusion. Point-of-care testing may support earlier identification of chronic kidney disease, especially in high-risk and underserved populations. The reviewed studies suggest that POCT can improve access to screening in community and resource-limited settings. However, further research is needed to standardize its use and confirm its long-term clinical value.