Brighton health centre offers HIV tests with instant results to mark World AIDS Day

A health centre is marking World AIDS Day on Monday (1 December) with HIV tests offering instant results.

Brighton Station Health Centre said that it would have extra staff on duty at its surgery in Queen’s Road, Brighton.

And with the help of the Terrence Higgins Trust they will use the day to promote the importance of HIV testing.

Dr Rageni Sangha

Dr Rageni Sangha, lead GP for sexual health at the centre, said: “Anyone visiting the centre on Monday, whether at the sexual health clinic, the walk-in centre or the registered GP practice, can take advantage of the INSTI HIV rapid test.

“It’s a pin-prick blood test which gives an immediate indicative response. If this is positive, further blood tests will be carried out.

“Brighton has the second highest prevalence of HIV outside of London. Early detection of HIV is critical as there is strong evidence that early intervention will improve health outcomes.

“Treatment has advanced significantly during the past 15 years so I would encourage people to have a test.

“Our centre is the only one in Brighton able to offer extended hours for HIV testing. We are open 8am to 7pm, seven days a week.

“Also, because the centre offers three different services, visitors wanting an HIV test can enjoy anonymity while sitting in the waiting area.”

Leaflets and posters will be prominent at the centre on Monday, offering advice and information on HIV and the importance of testing.

The centre, which opened five years ago, is run on behalf of the local NHS by Care UK, one of the country’s leading health and social care providers.

It has nearly 6,000 registered patients and during the past five years has seen 95,000 patients through the walk-in centre and a further 35,000 through the sexual health clinic.