Rapid pathogen testing (RPT) has evolved dramatically in the past decade with the routine clinical use of molecular-based technologies. The simultaneous migration toward fixed-cost reimbursement for hospital-based care and the push toward more efficient outpatient care in decentralized locations are driving the diagnostics industry to confront RPT from two distinct approaches. The need for fast results that will improve clinical care and antibiotic stewardship underlies testing in both arenas. But for hospital-based patients the need is for comprehensive information, while point-of-care (POC) settings are looking for sensitive, binary answers. In order to achieve these goals, regardless of setting, RPT combines elements of around-the-clock access to testing, rapid turnaround time, and meaningful linkage between results and treatment recommendations. Rapid and precise pathogen identification is critical for surveillance of emerging resistance and to support anti-microbial stewardship and personalized guidance of therapy and care, which in turn benefits the bottom line. The connection between RPT results, treatment decisions, and potential cost savings is most pronounced in the hospital environment. The Value of RPT Is Quantifiable Implementation of value-based payment programs has put financial pressure on hospitals to improve the quality and cost efficiency of care, namely by getting patients well and home faster. […]