Abstract: A disposable biomedical and diagnostic electrode characterized in that functional electrical contact is effected between the skin and an electrically conductive element of the electrode by means of a conductive adhesive, and in that conductive skin contact is enhanced, when necessary, by selective application of a conductive gel contained in and releasable from a storage cavity in the electrode itself. The pressure-released gel establishes a fluid film interface between the patient's skin and the conductive adhesive and, concurrently, provides a highly conductive path between the electrode itself, and the patient's skin.