There has been an increase in HIV testing rates across both Queen’s and King George hospitals since an NHS programme to test for blood-borne viruses was introduced in 2022.

Patients in our Emergency Departments are tested for conditions including HIV unless they choose to opt-out. From April to October, we conducted an average of 6,857 HIV tests every month across Queen’s and King George hospitals.

This is increasing month by month because of the dedication of our staff who are testing as many patients as possible.

Poonam Ranchan, our Lead Sexual Health and HIV Pharmacist (pictured above) said the team want people to know that HIV is a treatable and manageable condition.

Poonam said:

We've had many patients come where they wouldn't ordinarily have been tested. Patients are getting diagnosed earlier thanks to our testing programme, meaning they can start the treatment they need sooner. 

Early HIV diagnosis enables patients to engage in care earlier, resulting in better long-term health outcomes. Early detection allows patients to take control and make informed decisions about their health.

World AIDS Day took place on Sunday 1 December. Our HIV team set up a stall in the atrium at Queen’s Hospital on Friday 29 November.

The team provided staff and patients with information and advice about the condition. They are encouraging people to get a quick finger prick test to find out their HIV status within minutes.

More than 105,000 people are living with HIV in the UK, according to the National AIDS Trust.