From 4 August 2026, patients aged 18 and over attending our emergency department (A&E) at St Peter’s Hospital who require a blood test will be screened for HIV (human immunodeficiency virus).
This is an opt-out test, meaning every blood test taken in the department will be screened for HIV, unless you tell us not to.
This testing is part of an NHS England programme, which aims to achieve ending new HIV diagnoses by 2030. It is already in place across more than 80 hospitals in England.
▶ What is HIV?
HIV is a virus that weakens your immune system and increases your risk of serious illness. Whilst there is currently no cure, many people with HIV can live a long and healthy life due to the treatments available. Read more: HIV and AIDS - NHS
▶ Why is this important?
Many people in the UK do not know that they are living with a blood borne virus. It’s important to find them early, as timely diagnosis ensures you can get life-saving treatment as soon as possible. In the first 18 months of the programme, nearly 600 people were newly diagnosed with HIV as a result of opt-out testing.
▶ Do I have to have this test?
You do not have to have this test if you do not want to. If you wish to opt-out of being tested for a blood borne virus, please speak with a member of our team so they can record this is your medical notes.
If you do not need a blood test during your visit, you will not be tested.
If you have been tested at Ashford and St Peter’s within the last 12 months, you will not be tested again unless agreed with the clinician.
Your results are confidential and only the healthcare professionals who care for you will know.
▶ What happens if I opt-out?
‘Opting out’ means you choose not to be screened for HIV, you can still have other blood tests.
If you opt-out of the screening test, this decision will be recorded in your medical notes. It is important to tell staff each time you are having a blood test in the emergency department if you still want to opt-out.
▶ I didn’t have a blood test; how can I get tested?
Not everyone who attends the emergency department will have a blood test.
If you do not receive a test but would like to request one for yourself or a family member, please contact your GP.
Alternatively, you can book an appointment or order a home test kit from services such as Surrey Sexual Health. Find your local testing and treatment service at www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/sexual-health-services/find-sti-testing-and-treatment/
▶ How will I find out my results?
A non-reactive (negative) result means that you did not have HIV at the time of testing. If you do not hear from us within four weeks from the day you were in the emergency department, you can assume your test result is negative.
If you have a reactive result, also known as a provisional positive, we will contact you to arrange an appointment and discuss the next steps.
▶ My contact details are incorrect and need updating
If your contact details are incorrect and need updating, you can change these via:
- NHS App
- Your GP surgery
▶ Who should I contact at Ashford and St Peter’s for further information?
If you’d like more information about opt-out testing for blood borne viruses at Ashford and St Peter’s Hospitals, please contact
▶ How to access support and further information
For more information and support please visit:
