Does point-of-care testing in general practice for leucocyte and differential count change use of antimicrobial medicines? A pilot study
Oliver Frank A B D , Nigel Stocks B and Chris Del Mar C
+ Author Affiliations
- Author Affiliations
A Oakden Medical Centre, 132–134 Fosters Road, Hillcrest, SA 5086, Australia.
B Discipline of General Practice, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia.
C Institute for Evidence-Based Healthcare, Level 4, Building 5, Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, 14 University Drive, Robina, Qld 4226, Australia.
D Corresponding author. Email: oliver.frank@adelaide.edu.au
Australian Journal of Primary Health 26(5) 358-361 https://doi.org/10.1071/PY20115
Submitted: 11 May 2020 Accepted: 22 July 2020 Published: 25 September 2020
Journal Compilation © La Trobe University 2020 Open Access CC BY
Abstract
Diagnostic uncertainty when considering prescription of antimicrobials (‘antibiotics’) in primary care contributes to the major problem of microbial resistance. We conducted a feasibility evaluation of rapid testing for leucocyte and differential count in two urban general practices, surveying the GPs online and interviewing them. GPs reported that the machines were easy to use, the test results influenced their care and they would adopt the system if costs were off-set. Feasibility, acceptability and perceived benefit justify a randomised trial to test the effect on antibiotic prescribing rates and quality of care, with an economic evaluation to inform the cost-benefit.
Keywords: ambulatory care facilities, delivery of health care, diagnostic services, point-of-care systems, primary health care.
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