Implementation of Point-of-Care PCR-testing for the diagnosis of respiratory infections in vulnerable patient populations.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Point-of-Care (POC) PCR-testing provides accurate, and timely results in diagnosing respiratory viral infections. Despite these benefits, stakeholder perceptions and its potential for improving health outcomes remain insufficiently explored. Therefore, we aim to explore the acceptability and feasibility of POC PCR-testing implementation in settings attended by vulnerable populations.

Methods

We conducted semi-structured interviews with stakeholders from ambulatory settings, including decision makers, molecular diagnostics experts, healthcare workers, and patients. Study settings included two emergency departments (one adult, one pediatric), two oncology units, and two dialysis units, including both POC PCR implementors and non-implementors. We thematically analyze

SUBMITTER: Tolle H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12306790 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature