NHS Grampian has launched a pilot scheme aimed at diagnosing bloodborne viruses (BBVs) earlier – which improves outcomes and treatment options for patients. Early detection of hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV can be lifesaving, as they are treatable. But if left untreated they can lead to serious illness and death.
In a national first, all patients who have a blood test performed as part of their assessment at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary’s Emergency Department will be tested for BBVs. Patients will be given the opportunity to opt out of the pilot.
Gareth Patton, Consultant in Emergency Medicine (pictured above), said: “Patients with BBV infections often have no symptoms, so there are people living with them who aren’t aware that they are infected. The only way to find out if someone has a blood borne virus is to carry out a blood test.
“Across the UK, and the rest of the world, there is ongoing transmission of all three BBVs, often with cases of late diagnosis. Our pilot is part of a drive to eliminate hepatitis C, end new transmissions of HIV and treat people living with hepatitis B.”
The three-month pilot is being funded by the Scottish Government.
Dr Patton added: "The opt-out testing project in our Emergency Department could have a significant impact for individual patients and the wider community by identifying those unknowingly living with BBVs in Grampian. By identifying patients in this way, we can ensure early follow-up with an appropriate specialist for initiation of treatments available on the NHS and also potentially reduce further spread of the infections.”
“We have been working closely with our colleagues in Sexual Health, Hepatology and Public Health to make this pilot as successful as possible,” Dr Patton said. “We are very excited to be the first Board in Scotland to offer this service, and we look forward to evaluating the project."