Highly Commended
Think Test for HIV
Summary of work
Late diagnosis of HIV remains an issue in the UK, affecting morbidity and mortality. While guidelines set out criteria for testing outside the genitourinary medicine (GUM) setting, testing in other specialties remains low.
The agency worked with Bristol-Myers Squibb to develop a programme designed to increase HIV testing in non-GUM secondary care settings. In the four months since launch, the Think Test for HIV initiative has been adopted in more than 30 hospitals. In one hospital, this has already resulted in a 60 per cent increase in HIV testing and a 13 per cent increase in early diagnosis – directly impacting on patients’ lives.
Judges’ comments
If you look at the first objective and the result, they absolutely nailed this. I love the fact that they took the time to do a test pilot – a hell of a lot has gone into the test pilot and no doubt the impact would be impressive but we don’t know what that is yet. The fact that this has been adopted in 30 hospitals is very impressive.
Testimonials and Judges’ comments
Consultant physician sexual health: Not only did it generate interest and discussion during training but it also helped identify unexpected barriers to testing, leading to practical changes and solutions.
Senior Health Advisor/clinical service manager: This resource is really helping us to make HIV testing happen outside the GUM setting at St Georges...The training package is very straightforward to use and encourages discussion during the session. We’ve had some really positive feedback from the respiratory team.
Consultant in sexual health and HIV medicines: Since using these materials, there has been a 60% increase in routine HIV testing by junior doctors and a 13% shift in earlier diagnosis.
