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COVID-19 testing decisions and behaviours in two Australian cities
Penelope A Robinson1, David C Levy2, Claire Hooker3,4
1Faculty of Medicine and Health, Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
Summary
Many people with respiratory symptoms avoid COVID-19 testing due to perceived risks and practical barriers. Addressing these concerns through clear communication and accessible testing sites can improve testing rates for coronavirus.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- High levels of testing are essential for controlling the spread of COVID-19.
- Understanding barriers to testing is crucial for effective public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the factors preventing individuals with respiratory symptoms from undergoing COVID-19 testing.
- To identify barriers to accessing and utilizing COVID-19 testing services.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative study employing semi-structured interviews with 14 adults in Australian capital cities.
- Thematic analysis of interviews, including participants with symptoms who did not test for COVID-19.
Main Results:
- Participants evaluated risks associated with COVID-19 infection and attending testing sites.
- Concerns about inconvenience, financial loss, and logistical challenges influenced testing decisions.
Conclusions:
- Public health messaging should emphasize the importance of testing, even for minor symptoms.
- Improving testing center accessibility and providing clear logistical information can increase testing uptake.
