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Guidelines for pre-test discussion on HIV testing

Document type:

Publication
Author:

Department of Health
Published date:

1 March 1996
Primary audience:

Professionals
Gateway reference:

Not required
Series number:

HSC 1999/183
Pages:

24
Copyright holder:

Crown Copyright

The United Kingdom Health Departments recommend that named testing for evidence of HIV infection should only be undertaken with informed consent, individuals having received information about how HIV is transmitted, the significance of both positive and negative results and a discussion of the particular needs and interests relevant to the individual. This document is suitable for use by health care workers who may be involved in pre-test discussion. The text reflects consultation with the Expert Advisory Group on AIDS. Annex A details the result of a process audit of the content of current pre-test discussion which was conducted by the United Kingdom Health Departments in October 1994.

Since these guidelines were written, policy with respect to antenatal HIV testing has changed. All women in England are now offered and recommended an HIV test as part of their antenatal care, not just those in high prevalence areas as stated in the guidance. Details of the new policy can be found in HSC 1999/183.

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