Mixed

Current standard laboratory nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) are more accurate and cost-effective than rapid point-of-care tests (POCTs) for detecting genital chlamydia infection.

For chlamydia testing, laboratory-based nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) remain the gold standard because they are more accurate and cost-effective than rapid point-of-care tests. While rapid tests provide faster results, they miss more infections and cost more to the healthcare system. Providers should prioritize NAATs for diagnostic accuracy, though rapid tests may be considered in specific contexts where they significantly increase testing uptake.