Barriers and enablers for implementation of 4IR-linked diagnostics models at point-of-care in South Africa: Stakeholder engagement

Abstract

Fourth industrial revolution (4IR) technologies may improve access to disease diagnosis and treatment at point-of-care (POC). Stakeholder engagements are an important step when implementing such interventions. In this study, we report the findings of a workshop that was held with key stakeholders to determine barriers and enablers for implementing 4IR-linked POC diagnostic models in South Africa. The workshop formed part of the 2022 REASSURED Diagnostics symposium. The nominal group technique (NGT) workshop was conducted in two phases: phase 1 and phase 2 focused on determining barriers and enablers, respectively, to implementing 4IR-linked POC diagnostic models in South Africa. Stakeholders identified connectivity, offline functionality, and load shedding as some of the most important barriers, while ease of use, subsidies by the National Health Insurance, and 24-hour assistance would enable the implementation 4IR-linked POC diagnostic models. The NGT workshop provided a suitable platform for identifying important barriers and enablers to the implementation of 4IR-linked POC diagnostic models. A follow-up study should identify the best strategies for implementing 4IR-linked POC diagnostics models in underserved populations.