Rapid testing improves patient understanding and long-term health outcomes

Rapid testing improves patient understanding and long-term health outcomes

14 May 2026

The research, published in BMC Public Health, reviewed 13 studies involving more than 21,000 people and looked at how rapid testing affects health understanding and long-term outcomes.

Researchers from Flinders University focused on common chronic conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease, where on-the-spot tests measure things like blood glucose, HbA1c, cholesterol, and clotting levels.

The study found that patients who received immediate results had a better understanding of their health and felt more confident managing their conditions.

Many also reported being more motivated to make lifestyle changes, improving medication adherence and achieving better clinical results, including lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.

Some participants experienced reduced anxiety and improved quality of life, especially those regularly monitoring long-term conditions.

Parents of children with diabetes also felt more confident managing their child’s care when test results were available immediately during consultations.

Researchers say the key benefit is that instant results help patients better understand and use health information in real time, making care more meaningful and easier to follow.

Lead researcher Dr Kelcie Miller said immediate results can improve patient engagement and support more informed discussions between patients and GPs.

She said PoCT is particularly useful in chronic disease care, where ongoing involvement is important for long-term health.

RACGP diabetes expert Dr Gary Deed said the findings support the use of PoCT in general practice, especially for helping patients manage chronic conditions.

However, he noted that cost remains a barrier, particularly in rural and remote areas and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, where access could improve care outcomes.

https://www1.racgp.org.au/
 
Source: BMC Public Health / Flinders University

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