Point-of-Care Urinalysis Dipstick Screening for Urinary Tract Infections in Sierra Leone

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are prevalent infections especially among women and can result in complications including pyelonephritis, sepsis, and miscarriage. Urine dipstick tests are an alternative diagnostic method to urinalysis for low- and middle-income countries that lack resources for diagnostic testing. This study evaluated the implementation of a UTI screening program with an affordable 3-parameter urine dipstick test in Sierra Leone. The study aimed to determine a healthcare network’s ability to adopt screening, patient acceptability of UTI screening, and patient willingness to pay for screening. Quantitative screening data and qualitative interview data were collected and analysed via a multiple linear regression and general inductive approach, respectively. The results suggest higher earning occupations and engagement of community leadership in sensitization are associated with increased willingness of patients to undergo screening. Furthermore, screening willingness only decreased at the highest cost level, and a consensus existed on an optimal price point. Qualitative results supported implementation through general clinic operations with a systematic screening process.