Background
Imagine waking up with a sore throat and fever. Instead of booking an appointment and waiting days to see your doctor, you pull a small device from your drawer, follow a few simple steps, and—within minutes—know whether you have strep throat, COVID-19, or just a common cold. This is no longer science fiction. The past decade has seen a dramatic rise in at-home diagnostic tests, transforming how individuals engage with their health and the broader healthcare system.
These “doctor in your pocket” technologies now range from humble pregnancy tests to sophisticated genetic screening kits, cholesterol meters, and smartphone-enabled ECGs. The COVID-19 pandemic supercharged their adoption, making at-home rapid antigen tests and telemedicine household essentials. As the boundaries between clinic and home blur, it’s time to explore what this revolution means for individuals, clinicians, and society.
