Patient Perceptions of Penicillin Allergy Testing in a Public Health System

Area of Science:

• Clinical Medicine
• Allergy and Immunology
• Patient Experience Research

Background:

• Documented penicillin allergies lead to adverse health outcomes, including increased morbidity and antibiotic resistance.
• Penicillin allergy testing (PAT) is a recommended delabeling strategy, but access barriers and patient perceptions require investigation.
• Understanding diverse patient perspectives is crucial for effective penicillin allergy delabeling and antibiotic stewardship.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore patient perceptions following successful penicillin allergy delabeling via a PAT program.
• To identify factors influencing patient acceptance and experiences with penicillin allergy testing.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative interviews using closed and open-ended questions were conducted with 100 patients.
• Patients included had undergone PAT and subsequent allergy removal based on negative test results.

Main Results:

• Low awareness regarding risks of unnecessary penicillin avoidance and PAT was observed.
• Initial patient concerns about PAT were often resolved through education.
• While most patients reported positive experiences and recommended PAT, a minority maintained distrust in negative results.

Conclusions:

• Future interventions should enhance public awareness of penicillin allergy labels and PAT, considering health literacy, language, and cultural factors.
• Establishing patient trust within clinical settings is vital for successful PAT implementation and long-term outcomes.
• Addressing discordant perceptions and building trust are essential for widespread adoption of penicillin allergy delabeling.