Testing for HIV, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C

If you have a blood test while in a London Emergency Department (A&E) it is now tested for HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C.

Many people with these conditions do not know they have them because symptoms take years to show. The tests are routine, the same as your usual blood test.

It is important to diagnose HIV, hepatitis B or hepatitis C early. Treatment 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 confidential.

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 hepatitis C?

HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C are blood-borne viruses that are easily treated once diagnosed. It is best to diagnose them as early as possible before they begin to harm your health. Without the right care their effects can become life-threatening.

All patients aged 16 and over are tested as part of routine blood testing for the Emergency Department. This is in line with expert national guidance.

Will I get a result if the test is negative?

No, we will only contact you if the test is positive. Sometimes we are not able to test the blood we take from you due to a technical problem.

If you want to know whether your blood was tested for these infections, or find out your results, please leave a message for the Results Team on 020 3315 6123.

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 care. The team will contact you to ask you to have another test to confirm the diagnosis and discuss your treatment.

Therapies are safe and effective and allow your body to repair the damage to your immune system. People on effective medication live well.

What is the treatment for these viruses?

Treatment is different for each virus. All are safe, effective and easy to take. They will help you stay well, and also help stop the virus being passed on. Hepatitis C can be completely cured. With the right treatment you can expect to live long and well. Treatment is free from the NHS.

What if I do not want to know whether I have these viruses?

We are encouraging everyone who does not already know whether they have these viruses to have the test. Knowing and getting treatment can save your life. If you don’t want to be tested, please let a member of staff know.

What if I have further questions or I am worried?

For HIV concerns, you can speak to Health Advisors at any sexual health clinic, find contact details here:

www.nhs.uk/service-search/sexual-health

For concerns about hepatitis B and hepatitis C, your GP will give you the best advice.

What if I am visiting from another country?

Testing and treatment is free to everyone. You will not be charged. 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?

Your test results, like all NHS test results, are confidential. This means that only NHS healthcare workers who are involved in your care will be able to access your test result.

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 month 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.