Point-of-care testing preferences 2020-2022: Trends over the years

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Services Research
• Medical Diagnostics

Background:

• Point-of-care (POC) tests were infrequently used outside healthcare settings before the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Public perception and acceptance of POC tests are not well understood, especially concerning pandemic-driven changes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess public preferences for point-of-care testing (POCT) benefits and concerns.
• To compare public opinion on POCT from 2020 to 2022.

Main Methods:

• A validated survey was administered to 292 uncompensated volunteers between June and September 2022.
• Linear regression analysis compared average response scores (ARSs) from 2020 and 2022.

Main Results:

• Respondents agreed with all 16 POCT benefits assessed in 2022.
• Top concerns included potential lack of insurance coverage (ARS 0.9) and test result reliability (ARS 0.1).
• Eight significant trends in POCT benefits and harms were observed between 2020 and 2022.

Conclusions:

• Public favorability towards POC tests has increased over time.
• Persistent concerns regarding cost and accuracy need to be addressed by stakeholders.
• Developing reliable and affordable POC tests is crucial for improving healthcare access.