Table 1 Summary of identified themes
Theme | Key findings |
|---|---|
Drug checking technologies | |
 Patron perspectives | Wait time, cost, and sample destruction were identified as barriers to service utilization Highly accurate, quantitative results are preferred by patrons |
 Fentanyl test strips | Fentanyl test strips are seen as highly accepted and easy to use A wide variety of locations were suggested as distribution sites |
 Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) | Use of FTIR was commonly reported in the literature, with variable results Benefits include broad range of substances detected, lower cost, and improved portability compared to MS technologies Limitations include a high detection limit, and poorer sensitivity and specificity compared to laboratory-based technologies |
 Mass spectrometry (MS) | New MS technologies have been employed for harm reduction and may offer improved technological specifications (detection limits, accuracy, etc.) compared to FTIR Limitations include high cost, expertise needed for operation, and physical site requirements |
Venue | |
 Patron perspectives | Patrons emphasized the need for assessable services with convenient locations and hours of operation Mobile services may help facilitate plausible deniability, outreach to rural patrons, and adaptive response to local drug trends by allowing services to be provided in high-need or high-risk areas |
 Integration of services | Integration of drug checking with other services was reported with mixed results Integration may capitalize on trust and comfortability if patrons already use services at an existing site, and may help bridge patrons to other harm reduction services Integration of services may be a barrier to some patrons who fear stigma associated with a site or its services |
 Other | Peers or people with lived experience were seen as important for developing trust in patrons Communication of results should be informative on the substances identified and appeal to a wide range of patrons |
Legality | Legality was the most commonly reported barrier to service utilization Criminalization was a major concern for both patrons and staff members |
Privacy | Patrons are concerned with being identified physically, and through inappropriate use of their information |