<p>An electrochemical test sensor for detecting the concentration of an analyte in a fluid sample. The electrochemical test sensor includes a housing (102) that has a first end (106) and a second opposing end (104). The housing includes an opening at the first end (106) to receive a fluid test sample. An electrode assembly (108) includes a substrate (110), a working electrode (116), a counter electrode (118) and a reagent. The substrate has a first surface (112) and an opposing second surface (114). The working electrode (116) is disposed on the first surface (112) of the substrate (110), and the counter electrode (118) is disposed on the second surface (114) of the substrate (112). The electrode assembly (108) is positioned within the housing to define a reaction channel. The electrochemical test sensor may be used with a removable lancet mechanism or integrated within a lancet mechanism to form one integral unit.</p>