Factors influencing the rollout and uptake of COVID-19 rapid diagnostic testing: qualitative insights from six African nations.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly affected healthcare systems in Africa, revealing urgent Challenges in resource-limited settings and the need for effective diagnostic strategies. This study examines the factors influencing the rollout and uptake of COVID-19 antigen-based rapid diagnostic tests (Ag-RDTs) in six African countries: Cameroon, Chad, Burkina Faso, Niger, Sierra Leone, and the Republic of Congo.

Methods

Utilizing qualitative methodologies, we conducted focus group discussions (FGDs) with healthcare personnel, community health workers, and community members to explore barriers and facilitators affecting decentralized testing efforts.

Results

Key barriers identified include misinformation, distrust in government intentions, staff demotivation,

SUBMITTER: Njukeng PA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12568697 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature