This story was first published in digitalhealth.net
NHS testing pilot identifies thousands of HIV and Hepatitis cases
A new NHS testing pilot has identified almost 2,000 people living with HIV and Hepatitis who were previously undiagnosed.
People visiting who are already having blood taken as part of their visit have an extra sample taken which is then screened for HIV, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C.
If the test comes back positive, the patient is offered specialist support and a treatment plan is agreed with them.
£20 million has been invested over three years to implement routine HIV opt out testing in 33 hospital emergency departments since April 2022.
42 per cent of HIV diagnoses in the UK are made late, after the immune system has already been damaged.
Professor Sir Stephen Powis, NHS National Medical Director, said: “Effective testing for blood-borne viruses is vital in helping us identify and treat more people living with HIV and Hepatitis, so we are very pleased with the positive impact of our routine opt out testing programme.
“Increasing the early detection and diagnoses of HIV, hepatitis and other blood borne viruses, enables us to provide people with better access to the latest and most effective life-saving medication, which can prevent long-term health issues and reduces the chance of unknown transmissions to others.
“The NHS is committed to making all contact with patients count, and this testing programme is a good example of how we are taking advantage of every opportunity to support people with staying well, preventing illness and saving lives.”
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