Challenges

In 2009 the National AIDS Trust (NAT) issued an 'action plan' for HIV testing,¹ with recommendations for how to increase the uptake of HIV testing and reduce late diagnosis. NAT was supportive of the testing guidelines, but noted some challenges to their implementation:

• Getting needed support from relevant clinical bodies to implement the new testing guidelines including non-HIV specialties.
• Revising GP contracts and financial incentives to ensure primary care plays its part in HIV testing and diagnosis.
• Training for healthcare professionals, particularly non-HIV specialists, to identify risk, early symptoms of HIV infection and how to offer a test sensitively.
• Agreeing audits in line with relevant standards.
• Ensuring access to appropriate follow-up treatment and integrated care pathways for everyone in the UK diagnosed with HIV, irrespective of setting of diagnosis or residency status.