Patients visiting Accident and Emergency departments in North Lincolnshire will now participate in a critical pilot scheme for HIV and hepatitis testing. This is part of an effort to improve early detection, limit transmission, and enhance patient results. The scheme will begin on 1 October and continue until March. It involves testing all adult patients who have blood drawn as part of their treatment for these severe infections, unless they choose to opt out.
The programme is part of a wider initiative by the NHS to increase opt-out testing in almost 90 emergency departments across England. Recent figures show a 40% increase in the detection of blood-borne infections since the initial launch of the scheme. North Lincolnshire has reported that 50% of HIV patients received a late diagnosis between 2020 and 2022. This project aims to significantly decrease the number of late-stage HIV diagnoses, which are linked to a tenfold increase in mortality rates.
Dr Nicholas Easom, a consultant specialising in infectious diseases, underscored the potential life-saving impact of these tests. He pointed out the high incidence of hepatitis C in the area.
The Lincoln Post adapted this story from original reporting by www.bbc.com.
