Patients having blood samples taken at NHS Lothian’s two Emergency Departments (A&Es) are likely to be tested for blood-borne viruses as part of a national initiative to save lives by diagnosing and treating infections earlier.
The testing – which is safe, confidential and optional – will be provided to Emergency Department patients aged 16 and over who are assessed at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh from 4 August, and at St Johns Hospital in Livingston from 1 September.
People may have no symptoms and be unaware they are living with an infection. Of the three viruses that will be tested for, hepatitis C can be cured, and hepatitis B and HIV can be managed with effective treatment so that people can lead long and healthy lives. But if left untreated, these can result in serious illnesses and, in some cases, death.
With around half of Emergency Department patients having blood samples taken as part of their care, the additional tests will enable early detection. If a test is positive, the patient will receive a telephone call within 2 weeks to discuss highly effective treatment options.
Any patient who does not wish to be tested can opt out by letting a member of staff know. This decision will not affect the care they receive.
The initiative, funded by the Scottish Government, follows an NHS Lothian trial. In testing elsewhere in the UK, 1 in 180 patients tested positive for hepatitis B, hepatitis C or HIV and received specialist follow-up care.
Susan Webb, Director of Public Health, NHS Lothian, said: “This testing is a positive step for public health in Edinburgh and the Lothians.
“It will ensure patients are diagnosed and treated far sooner than they otherwise would have been.
“Early diagnosis improves the clinical outcomes for these patients, and reduces ongoing transmission across our communities. This ties in with the Scottish Government’s drive to eliminate hepatitis C, end new transmissions of HIV and treat people living with hepatitis B – continuing the progress that has already been made.
“The tests are safe, confidential and optional, with the initiative designed to protect and improve health.”
The tests are only for adults attending NHS Lothian’s Emergency Departments because they need emergency care.
Posters about this initiative will be displayed throughout the Emergency Departments, with further information about blood-borne viruses and testing available on the NHS Inform website. All this reminds patients that if they wish to opt out, they should tell a staff member.
Anyone who believes they may have been exposed to a blood-borne virus should seek advice and testing as soon as possible from their GP practice, or from sexual health services at the Chalmers Centre or its local clinics.
