Speedy home UTI kits save 10 million GP trips

HOME test kits that diagnose urinary tract infections “within minutes” are being trialled on the NHS and could save 10 million GP appointments every year.

The kits allow patients to self-test using a dipstick, scan the result on to their smartphone, and be diagnosed on an app.

A trial is under way in Lincolnshire and has been used by 1,000 women.

About half of those using the service received antibiotics, helping to reduce overprescription. Across the county, 38 pharmacies have taken part in the scheme, and all said they would recommend the kits, according to a survey by makers Healthyio.

Also, 82 per cent of women surveyed said they would have gone to their GP if they had not used the at-home service. Katherine Ward, chief commercial officer, said the kit can help “divert traffic” from GP services.

UTI problems account for between 1 and 3 per cent of all GP consultations every year, equal to 10 million consultations. Up to 4.8 million women suffer from a UTI every year, estimates suggest, and it accounts for 20 per cent of antibiotics prescribed in primary care.