Pharmacist-led point-of-care services

Abstract

Point-of-care testing (POCT) provides rapid diagnostic results outside traditional laboratory settings, offering the potential for early disease detection and management. The aim of this study was to identify available POCT services in community pharmacies and assess their potential, with a focus on guidelines, device utilisation, standardisation, demand, and pharmacoeconomic considerations. A questionnaire was developed, validated and distributed to community pharmacists via social media and personal delivery in community pharmacies. The pharmacist questionnaire assessed the range of POCT services provided, test frequency, device reliability, and pharmacoeconomic considerations. A separate patient questionnaire captured usage patterns, willingness to pay, and perceptions of service availability. A total of 119 (n= 92 females) pharmacist questionnaires were collected. The majority of participants fell within the 30–39-year age range (n=42). The results revealed that blood pressure monitoring was the most commonly offered test (n=111). Following closely behind were urinalysis (n=104) and blood glucose monitoring (n=88). Pharmacists reported positive perceptions of device reliability and accuracy but highlighted gaps in calibration and standardisation practices (n=53). Financially, the majority (n=85) claimed that fees covered expenses, and the pharmacist reflected that patients were willing to pay the fee requested (n=63). Patient responses (n=64) revealed that many had previously used POCT services in pharmacies, with urinalysis (n=17) being the most commonly used test, followed by blood pressure monitoring (n=15) and blood glucose testing (n=10). Payment expectations varied across tests. While some respondents expected blood pressure monitoring (n=17) and blood glucose testing (n=9) to be free, the majority were willing to pay a small fee of €1-€5. For urinalysis, payment expectations were more varied, with most patients willing to pay €1- €5 (n=27), though some expected it to be free (n=9) or were open to fees of €6 or higher (n=28). Community pharmacy-based POCT is widely utilised and contributes to noncommunicable disease screening and management. Challenges in calibration, training, and cost accessibility remain significant barriers. Addressing these gaps through standardisation efforts, improved pharmacist training, and better financial models is crucial in ensuring equitable access to POCT services and optimisation of patient care outcomes.