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Could opt-out testing help eradicate new HIV cases?

New figures released by the NHS show that opt-out testing pilots have identified more than 3,500 previously undiagnosed cases of HIV, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C since April 2022.

The trials, which cost £20m, were designed to identify cases in people unlikely to get tested at a sexual health clinic.

The UK Health Security Agency, which has been leading the pilots, says opt-out testing is more likely to lead to an early diagnosis, which they say will save the NHS money in the long term.

HIV blood tests to be rolled out to more hospitals

29 November 2023

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