Patients' perspectives on providing a stool sample to their GP: a qualitative study

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Medical Sociology

Background:

• Stool specimen collection presents significant challenges for participants, hindering effective disease outbreak investigation.
• Informal feedback highlights patient difficulties with the stool sample collection process.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify barriers encountered by patients during stool sample collection and specimen return.
• To determine factors that can enhance the stool sample collection and return process.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative patient interview study was conducted in Gloucester, UK.
• Twenty-six patients, with and without prior stool collection experience, were interviewed using a schedule based on the theory of planned behaviour.
• Interview transcripts were analyzed using a modified framework analysis.

Main Results:

• Key barriers included embarrassment, fear of results, hygiene concerns, privacy issues, and insufficient information.
• Personal benefit was the primary motivator for sample collection and return.
• Patients strongly emphasized the need for an informational leaflet on stool collection.

Conclusions:

• General practitioners (GPs) can implement simple changes to improve patient experience and increase stool sample return rates.
• Direct distribution of collection kits by GPs, rather than receptionists, may facilitate patient inquiries.
• Providing an information leaflet and dedicated drop-off boxes can boost patient confidence and reduce embarrassment.