Patient Acceptability

Patients valued POCT for fast results, quicker diagnosis and treatment, lower pain, and the need for less blood. Patient acceptance of digital health interventions was high across most studies, evidenced by willingness to recommend and stable 12-month engagement. Most health professionals viewed digital interventions positively, describing them as important, convenient, and confidence-boosting. Methods for measuring technology acceptance across included studies lacked rigour and repeatability. Future studies should use established frameworks such as the Technology Acceptance Model to formally assess patient acceptance, as these models predict actual usage through behavioural intention. Clear explanations from healthcare workers increased patient confidence in POCT, while absence of quality assurance and communication undermined trust. Economic barriers, especially transportation costs, significantly limited patient access to laboratory services and medical appointments. Some patients doubted POCT accuracy precisely because less blood was used, while others preferred conventional testing as more reliable for conditions such as diabetes. In urban facilities, many patients waited unt…