Attitudes towards and use of point-of-care tests for STIs: results from a survey of STI conference attendees in 2023

Abstract

Background Point-of-care tests (POCTs) for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have become increasingly available since the COVID-19 pandemic. There is limited data on the use of these tests in clinical practice as well as the potential challenges to integrating them into care. Methods We conducted a survey of participants at an international STI conference in July 2023 to better understand the use of STI POCTs. Results A total of 83% of respondents reported using traditional POCTs (such as Gram stain and wet prep) in their practices, and 52% used newer POCTs (most commonly: rapid tests for Treponema pallidum (26%) and molecular tests for Neisseria gonorrhoeae /Chlamydia trachomatis (26%)). Newer POCTs were commonly used for symptomatic (77%) and asymptomatic patients (46%), in addition to asymptomatic contacts of people with STIs (51%) and those with increased vulnerabilities (47%). Disclosure of results from newer POCTs occurred during the clinic visit for the majority of respondents (71%). When asked about the most important obstacles to using newer POCTs, cost of the test to the clinical practice or healthcare system was the most cited issue (43%), whereas concerns regarding changing or establishing new clinic workflows was the second most cited issue (23%). Most participants were 'definitely' (58%) or 'maybe' (29%) in favor of patient self-tests; however, top concerns included lack of follow-up to ensure counseling/appropriate treatment for the patient and their partner. Conclusions To meaningfully adopt newer STI POCTs, further research is needed to understand practice patterns and barriers to implementation.