Rapid microbiological respiratory point-of-care testing: a qualitative study with primary care clinicians

Area of Science:

• Medical Microbiology
• Primary Care Medicine
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Rapid microbiological point-of-care tests (RM POCTs) offer potential to reduce antibiotic exposure and combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
• Understanding the integration and impact of RM POCTs in UK primary care settings is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• Investigate clinician perspectives on how RM POCTs influence clinical decisions and daily practice.
• Explore the impact of RM POCTs on the clinician-patient relationship.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study embedded within a multi-centre randomized controlled trial of a multiplex RM POCT for respiratory tract infections.
• Individual interviews conducted with 18 primary care clinicians (GPs, ANPs, paramedics, pharmacists, etc.), analyzed thematically using a realist approach.

Main Results:

• RM POCTs assist prescribing decisions amid diagnostic uncertainty and enhance patient communication regarding treatment.
• Clinician value perception and utilization of RM POCTs varied based on confidence, role, and patient management skills.
• Current cost and time demands hinder routine integration, with adoption unlikely without further support.

Conclusions:

• Clinicians generally hold positive views on RM POCTs, recognizing their potential benefits and challenges.
• Optimizing RM POCT feasibility and outcomes requires enhanced clinician training, communication skills development, patient education, and clear implementation strategies.