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The NHS launched a Blood-Borne Virus (BBV) opt-out testing programme in April 2022, the programme aligns with the HIV Action Plan to end new HIV cases in England by 2030 and aims for broader inclusivity in elimination efforts.

Our Emergency Departments at Peterborough City and Hinchingbrooke Hospital will now be routinely screened for HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C. This automatic testing is part of a national NHS initiative to carry out testing in local areas where these infections have a high prevalence. 
 
Patients aged 18 and over who attend ED and have a blood test as part of the care will be tested for these blood borne viruses (BBV). This screening is part of our routine care to help protect your health and the health of those around you and by routinely including these tests we can detect people living with the viruses, offer treatment, and ultimately save lives.
 
The BBV testing is an ‘opt out’ test, meaning every blood test will automatically be screened for these viruses, unless a patient tells ED staff not to test their sample. All tests and results are confidential, with patients only being contacted further if a ‘non-negative’ result is shown.

If patients are not required to have a blood test during their visit, they will not be tested.

Information on the programme will be displayed throughout the Emergency Department and can also be found here Blood Borne Virus Trial | NW Anglia Website.