Does point-of-care testing in general practice for leucocyte and differential count change use of antimicrobial medicines? A pilot study.

Does point-of-care testing in general practice for leucocyte and differential count change use of antimicrobial medicines? A pilot study. Aust J Prim Health. 2020 Sep 25;: Authors: Frank O, Stocks N, Del Mar C 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. PMID: 32972510 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Primary Care - Category: Primary Care Authors: Tags: Aust J Prim Health Source Type: research