Abstract
BackgroundPoint-of-care (POC) tests have become increasingly available and more widely used in recent years. They have been of particular importance to low-income settings, enabling them with clinical capacities that had previously been limited. POC testing programs hold a great potential for significant improvement in low-income health systems. However, as most POC tests are developed in high-income countries, disengagement between developers and end-users inhibit their full potential. This study explores perceptions of POC test end-users in a low-income setting, aiming to support the development of novel POC tests for low-income countries.MethodsA qualitative study was conducted in Mbarara District, Southwestern Uganda, in October 2014. Fifty health care workers were included in seven focus groups, comprising midwives, laboratory technicians, clinical and medical officers, junior and senior nurses, and medical doctors. Discussions were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were coded through a data-driven approach for qualitative content analysis.ResultsNineteen different POC tests were identified as currently being in use. While participants displayed being widely accustomed to and appreciative of the use of POC tests, they also assessed the use and characteristics of current tests as imperfect. An ideal POC test was characterized as being adapted to local conditions, thoughtfully implemented in the specific health system, and capable of improving the care of patients. Tests for specific medical conditions were requested. Opinions differed with regard to the ideal distribution of POC tests in the local health system.ConclusionPOC tests are commonly used and greatly appreciated in this study setting. However, there are dissatisfactions with current POC tests and their use. To maximize benefit, stakeholders need to include end-user perspectives in the development and implementation of POC tests. Insights from this study will influence our ongoing efforts to develop POC tests that will be particularly usable in low-income settings.
Highlights
In recent years, several medical point-of-care (POC) diagnostic tools have been rolled out for programmatic use toward improved diagnosis and disease surveillance in low-income countries [1]
Nineteen different POC tests were identified as currently being in use
Insights from this study will influence our ongoing efforts to develop POC tests that will be usable in low-income settings
Summary
Several medical point-of-care (POC) diagnostic tools have been rolled out for programmatic use toward improved diagnosis and disease surveillance in low-income countries [1]. The widespread use of POC tests—such as those for malaria and HIV—in low-income countries could be argued to have risen from previously unmet needs for diagnostic capabilities [5,6,7] Some of those needs were predicted to be filled by POC tests early in their large-scale rollout [8]. There is potential for POC tests to introduce basic laboratory-based diagnostics to settings without previous capabilities of such [1], as well as to play a role in large national or regional programs tackling various public health issues. Point-of-care (POC) tests have become increasingly available and more widely used in recent years They have been of particular importance to low-income settings, enabling them with clinical capacities that had previously been limited. This study explores perceptions of POC test endusers in a low-income setting, aiming to support the development of novel POC tests for low-income countries
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
