Lab-on-a-chip systems (LOCs) are microfluidic systems integrating several laboratory functions on a very small single chip. The identification and characterization of innovative biomarkers based on portable LOCs provides a valuable tool to implement individualized medicine. An analysis of the clinical potential, advantages and obstacles of portable diagnostic LOCs is urgently needed to evaluate the associated risks and opportunities from a healthcare perspective. A planned network project promoted by the federal ministry for education and research in Germany will systematically investigate the scope of LOCs and discuss the impact as well as the future demand, potentially adding to further evidence-based development.