29/11/2025
The largest national HIV charity, the Terrence Higgins Trust says that introducing automatic testing in A&E deparments for HIV and Hepatitis B and C have changed the game, saving thousands of people from living unknowingly with viruses and instead offering them treatment that will give them a longer, healthier life.
As part of blood tests taken during emergency care in 34 EDs in areas with the highest HIV prevalence, people are automatically tested for HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C unless they opt out. Those who receive a diagnosis are then offered treatment and support.
The results demonstrate the programme's significant impact. Over 33 months, it conducted over 7 million BBV tests, representing around 50% of all BBV testing done in these areas during this period. It achieved a high test uptake rate of around 70% among eligible people, demonstrating the effectiveness of the opt-out approach.
One in 240 people tested was found to have hepatitis B, highlighting the large number of people who are living with undiagnosed hepatitis B and the benefit of combined opt-out testing for BBVs in EDs. Similarly, one in 1276 people tested was found to have with HCV and one in 1916 for HIV. Further benefits included care re-engagement including 291 people previously diagnosed with HIV who were subsequently re-linked to HIV care during the programme.
Public Health Minister Ashley Dalton said:
'This groundbreaking programme continues to be a huge success, identifying infections that would otherwise have gone undiagnosed. By making testing a routine part of emergency care, we're connecting patients with lifesaving treatment earlier and helping to protect the wider community.
'It has also found almost 300 people who were previously diagnosed with HIV but were not receiving any type of care when they took part in this testing programme. I am delighted that because of this work, they are now receiving the treatment they need.
