The Scottish Government has today [6 May 2025] announced new funding for the roll-out of opt-out blood borne virus testing in emergency departments in cities with a high HIV prevalence. The decision follows three pilots of opt-out testing in NHS Lothian, NHS Grampian and NHS Highland in 2024 and a sustained campaign from Terrence Higgins Trust and partners across Scotland’s HIV sector, backed by our supporters in parliament and beyond. 

Opt-out testing is when patients are routinely tested for blood-borne viruses when having blood taken in A&E, unless they ask not to be. This new funding will see the public health intervention introduced in hospitals in NHS Lothian and NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, where HIV prevalence is highest. Those diagnosed with HIV will now be able to access treatment that means they can live a healthy life and won’t be able to pass HIV on. 

The commitment was made as a component of the Programme for Government 2025-2026, setting out what action will be taken by the Scottish Government in the coming year. The scale of the funding available and timelines are still to be confirmed.

Richard Angell OBE, Chief Executive of Terrence Higgins Trust said:  

‘This is a leap forward in our shared mission to end new cases of HIV in Scotland by 2030. The introduction of opt-out blood-borne virus testing in Edinburgh and Glasgow’s emergency departments means that thousands more people will be tested for both HIV and hepatitis and can access life-saving treatment. This will not just change lives, it will save them, tackle health inequalities and relieve pressure on the health service while doing so.

'We are delighted that the Scottish Government has listened to our sustained campaigning. This investment will put Scotland in prime position to be the first country in the world to end the HIV epidemic once and for all.’