by Lucy Ashton
Over the coming weeks, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) will introduce opt‑out testing for blood borne viruses at its Glasgow Royal Infirmary (GRI) Emergency Department.
The approach is part of a national plan to eliminate Hepatitis C and end new HIV transmission.
Testing will take place where possible for patients aged 16 to 69 who are already having blood taken during their emergency care. Individuals will be tested for HIV, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C, unless they choose to opt out.
Testing for blood borne viruses remains entirely optional, and anyone who does not wish to be tested can let a member of staff know.
Testing will start at the Royal and may later be rolled out to other Emergency Departments in Greater Glasgow and Clyde.
Dr John O’Dowd, NHSGGC Interim Director of Public Health said: “This is a very positive step for public health in Greater Glasgow and Clyde. By introducing BBV testing as part of emergency care, we can diagnose infections earlier, support people into highly effective treatment, and reduce transmission across our communities.
“We want the public to feel reassured. This is safe, confidential, and ultimately designed to protect and improve health.”
Clear signage and patient information will be displayed throughout the Emergency Department, and the initiative will be supported by digital materials to ensure patients understand the process. If the patient wishes to opt-out, they should tell a staff member.
Opt‑out blood borne virus testing allows earlier diagnosis for people who may not otherwise access testing opportunities. This can significantly improve individual health outcomes and reduce onward transmission in the community.
Highly effective treatments are available for all three blood borne viruses:
- Hepatitis C treatment is curative for the vast majority of people.
- HIV treatment can suppress the virus to undetectable levels, enabling people with the infection to live healthily with HIV and preventing onward transmission.
- Hepatitis B treatments can control the virus and protect long‑term health.
This service is only available for people who have an emergency that requires them to attend ED. Information on when to attend ED is available here. Routine blood borne virus testing services are available at sexual health services, GPs, alcohol and drug recovery services, THT and Waverley Care.
For more information on blood borne viruses and testing visit Scottish health information you can trust | NHS inform