Rapid Diagnostic Test Value and Implementation in Antimicrobial Stewardship Across Low-to-Middle and High-Income Countries: A Mixed-Methods Review

Overview

Journal Infect Dis Ther

Specialty Infectious Diseases

Date 2023 Jun 1

PMID 37261612

Authors

Luke S P Moore

Maria Virginia Villegas

Eric Wenzler

Timothy M Rawson

Rita O Oladele

Yohei Doi

Anucha Apisarnthanarak

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Despite technological advancements in infectious disease rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) and use to direct therapy at the per-patient level, RDT utilisation in antimicrobial stewardship programmes (ASPs) is variable across low-to-middle income and high-income countries. Key insights from a panel of seven infectious disease experts from Colombia, Japan, Nigeria, Thailand, the UK, and the USA, combined with evidence from a literature review, were used to assess the value of RDTs in ASPs. From this, a value framework is proposed which aims to define the benefits of RDT use in ASPs, separate from per-patient benefits. Expert insights highlight that, to realise the value of RDTs within ASPs, effective implementation is key; actionable advice for choosing an RDT is proposed. Experts advocate the inclusion of RDTs in the World Health Organization Model List of essential in vitro diagnostics and in iterative development of national action plans.

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