Alternative approaches to managing respiratory tract infections: A survey of public perceptions

Abstract

Aim: To describe public perceptions regarding finger-prick testing, back-up antibiotic prescriptions (BUP), and alternatives to traditional consultations for RTIs, and identify factors associated with favouring these approaches. Design and setting: Online national survey (HealthWise Wales) with linked primary care health record data. Methods: Survey item response distributions were described. Associations between responses about consultation alternatives, BUP and finger-prick point of care testing, and potential explanatory variables, were explored using logistic regression. Results: 8,752 participants completed the survey between 2016 and 2018. 76.7% (3,807/4,966) and 71.2% (3,529/4,953) of respondents with valid responses were in favour of being able to consult with a pharmacist or nurse in their GP surgery, or with a community pharmacist, respectively. 92.8% (8034/8659) of respondents indicated they would be happy to have a finger-prick test to guide antibiotic prescribing, and 31.8% (2746/8646) indicated they would like to be given a BUP if their clinician thought immediate antibiotics were not required. 47.4% (2342/4944) and 42.3% (2095/4949) were in favour of having video and email consultations respectively. Characteristics associated with different response options were identified. Conclusion: Consulting with pharmacists, using electronic communication tools, and finger-prick testing are widely acceptable approaches. BUP was described as acceptable less often and is likely to require greater information and support when used.