RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Evaluation of utilization and consequences of CRP point-of-care-testing in primary care practices: qualitative interviews with general practitioners from Germany
JF BJGP Open
JO BJGP Open
FD Royal College of General Practitioners
SP BJGPO.2024.0076
DO 10.3399/BJGPO.2024.0076
A1 Jung, Paul
A1 Bleidorn, Jutta
A1 Doepfmer, Susanne
A1 Heintze, Christoph
A1 Krause, Markus
A1 Kuempel, Lisa
A1 Kuschick, Doreen
A1 Lehmann, Lena-Sophie
A1 Rost, Liliana
A1 Toutaoui, Kahina J
A1 Wolf, Florian
YR 2024
UL http://bjgpopen.org/content/early/2024/09/19/BJGPO.2024.0076.abstract
AB Background The use and advantages of point-of-care tests (POCTs) for C-reactive protein (CRP) in general practice, especially for upper respiratory tract infections (uRTIs), have been studied extensively. However, there is limited knowledge about test indications, prerequisites, and integration of these tests into everyday practice.Aim This study aims to investigate the attitudes and experiences of general practitioners (GPs) in Germany regarding the use of semi-quantitative CRP-POCTs. The study places special emphasis on implementation in routine care, including testing procedures, feasibility, opportunities and barriers for specific consultation scenarios, as well as test indications and their impact on GP-patient communication.Design & setting Qualitative interview study with 10 GPs (May/2023 to Aug/2023)Method Ten German GPs who participated in an observational study on CRP-POCT use in general practices were interviewed using semi-structured interviews. Audio recordings were transcribed and content analysis was performed.Results Interviewed GPs stated that CRP-POCTs offer several advantages for various treatment cases. They improve diagnostic confidence and certainty of GPs’ therapeutic decisions, and offer a broad spectrum of indications and application scenarios. Additionally, they have a positive impact on GP-patient communication, and their ease of use enables rapid implementation into existing workflows. On the other hand, CRP-POCT increase the time required for test performance and patient consultation.Conclusion Due to the numerous benefits of semi-quantitative CRP-POCTs, interviewed GPs have a favourable attitude towards their regular integration into everyday practice. Implementation barriers include increased time and personnel expenses for testing and inadequate reimbursement by German statutory health insurance.