In a landmark announcement timed for World Aids Day, Health Secretary Wes Streeting has revealed a comprehensive government strategy backed by £170 million to eliminate new HIV transmissions in England by 2030.
Groundbreaking Testing Initiatives
The centrepiece of this ambitious plan involves introducing opt-out HIV testing in Accident & Emergency departments during routine blood tests. This innovative approach will initially roll out in regions with the highest HIV prevalence, including London and Manchester.
According to the Department for Health and Social Care, this strategy aims to identify thousands of undiagnosed infections among individuals who might not typically visit sexual health clinics. The government believes this could be a game-changer in reaching undiagnosed cases.
Digital Innovation and Stigma Reduction
Complementing the A&E testing programme, a £5 million trial will enable at-risk patients to order home HIV testing kits directly through the NHS App. This digital service provides a discreet pathway for those concerned about their sexual health to get tested, receive secure results, and connect with healthcare professionals from their mobile devices.
To address the persistent stigma surrounding HIV, hospital staff in trusts implementing the opt-out scheme will receive specialised anti-stigma training. This ensures patients can access care without fear of discrimination based on their HIV status.
Re-engaging Lost Patients
The action plan specifically targets approximately 5,000 individuals living with HIV who are no longer receiving care, often due to complex barriers including mental health issues, addiction, poverty, or fear of judgement.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer affirmed the government's commitment, stating: "I promised to end HIV transmissions in England by 2030 and we are making this a reality thanks to our action plan, with a groundbreaking new HIV prevention programme."
Mr Streeting highlighted the remarkable progress in HIV treatment, noting: "Today, people living with HIV can enjoy full, healthy lives – and can't pass the virus on to others. That's remarkable progress. But we can go further."
The initiative has received strong support from health organisations, with Anne Aslett, chief executive of The Elton John Aids Foundation, welcoming the increased funding for opt-out testing - a model her organisation pioneered in 2018.
However, Ms Aslett cautioned that without bold investment in prevention, including making PrEP widely accessible to everyone who needs it, ending new infections will remain challenging.
The government's comprehensive approach represents the most significant investment in HIV prevention in recent years, combining technological innovation with targeted outreach to make the 2030 goal achievable.
