Point-of-care testing in private pharmacy and drug retail settings: a narrative review.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Point-of-care testing (POCT) using rapid diagnostic tests for infectious disease can potentially guide appropriate use of antimicrobials, reduce antimicrobial resistance, and economise use of healthcare resources. POCT implementation in private retail settings such as pharmacies and drug shops could lessen the burden on public healthcare. We performed a narrative review on studies of POCTs in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), and explored uptake, impact on treatment, and feasibility of implementation.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE/PubMed for interventional studies on the implementation of POCT for infectious diseases performed by personnel in private retail settings. Data were extracted and analysed by two independent reviewers.

Results

Of the 848 stu

SUBMITTER: Chan JTN 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10463283 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature