How do diagnostic self-tests change healthcare relationships? A qualitative study

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Abstract Background Diagnostic self-tests in Belgian pharmacies are a recent phenomenon. While considered a way to empower patients to take informed decisions, self-tests also challenge the relationship between patients and health professionals and between pharmacists and general practitioners. This study explored how the introduction of diagnostic self-tests in pharmacies influences the health care relationships. Methods A qualitative study, part of the Care-test research program, was conducted using semi-structured interviews with 18 patients, 25 doctors, and 16 pharmacists from Brussels. Data collection ended after data saturation. Reflexive thematic analysis was performed. Results Mutual partnership approaches were not mainstreamed and mainly intuitive when existing, with patients being often more in demand for a partnership with their doctors than what their doctors offered. This perceived lack of dialogue led some patients to autonomous behaviours, qualified as “non-adherence” by professionals (self-medication with medicinal herbs, unilateral adaptation of therapies including those for HIV-infection and for orphan disease, etc.). Not all the patients, however, were in demand for a more active role. Some deferred to the doctor's choice, but they did not experience another kind of relationship. The doctor-pharmacist collaboration mainly entailed factual information exchange, although more collaborative relationships exist. Current collaborations related to self-tests were limited due to their novelty and controversial nature. While patients were generally in favour of diagnostic self-tests, professionals had divided opinions about them. Conclusions The study reveals divergent views between patients and health professionals and amongst professionals, about self-tests and the need for a partnership between patients and professionals. This suggests a need for health professionals to be better skilled in dealing with participative approaches. Key messages Mutual partnership and Interprofessional collaboration are not mainstreamed in health care. Patients, doctors and pharmacists had divergent views about diagnostic self-tests and about the need for partnership.