If you have a blood test while in our Emergency Department (A&E) it is now checked for HIV and Hepatitis B and C. The tests are routine, the same as your usual blood test.
Many people with these conditions do not know they have them because symptoms can take years to show.
It is important to diagnose HIV or Hepatitis B or C early as teatment is life-saving and free from the NHS. With medication you can expect to live long and well and it helps stop passing it on too.
Your results are strictly confidential meaning they are private and only healthcare professionals who help you know.
If you do not want to be tested please let a member of staff know.
Why is my blood being tested for HIV, Hepatitis B and C?
HIV, Hepatitis B and C are manageable long-term conditions and it’s best to diagnose them as early as possible before they begin to harm your health. Without treatment, the effects can become life-threatening. All patients over 16 years old are checked as part of routine blood testing for our Emergency Department. This is in line with NICE national guidance. With the right treatment you can expect to live long and well.
What if I do not want to know my HIV status?
It is always better to know your HIV status to check if you need life-saving treatment.
If you decide you do not want a test, please let the member of staff taking your bloods know.
Will I get a result if the test is negative?
No, we will only contact you if it is positive. Sometimes the result can be unclear, in this situation we would contact you to ask to re-test you.
What happens if my test is positive?
Your results are confidential and we will only share your result with our NHS specialists so that you receive the right care.
We will contact you to ask you to return for a repeat test in order to confirm the diagnosis and discuss your treatment. Therapies are extremely safe and effective and allow your body to repair the damage to your immune system. People on effective medication live well.
What if I do not want to know whether I have these conditions?
We are encouraging everyone who does not already know whether they have these conditions to have the test. Knowing and getting treatment can save your life. If you don’t want this, please tell the person who is taking your blood so they can ensure that you are not tested.
What if I have further questions or I am worried?
For HIV concerns, you can call the HIV team at the Alexander Pringle Centre on 0208 887 3236. If you've got any concerns related to Hepaittis B or C, or both, then call our hepatology team on 0208 887 3047.
What if I’m an overseas patient?
Treatment is free to everyone. We will not share your personal information with any external agencies or other government organisations.
If I test positive, who will be able to see my positive result?
Only NHS staff that already have access to your confidential health record will see your result. This will include your GP and other hospital Trusts involved in your care.
What if my contact details change?
It is important that we have the correct contact details (telephone number at least) so that we can speak to you about your test. Please make sure that we have the correct contact details for you and let us know if they change in the week after your test.
You can make sure that your contact details are correct by checking with our reception staff or the doctor or nurses looking after you. Please call 0208 887 2544 if they do change so that we can update your details.
Where can I find further information about these conditions?
There are various sources of information regarding HIV. These can be found at Do it London, the NHS website or the Terrance Higgins Trust.
You can also visit the NHS website for information about Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C.
