The first HIV-positive patient to be identified by NHS-funded pharmacy screening has praised the profession’s role in improving his prognosis.

Just three weeks after PCT-commissioned HIV screening was launched in Isle of Wight (IoW) community pharmacies (C+D, December 12, p5), an HIV positive patient previously unaware of his infection was identified.

As part of the service, the patient was “fast-tracked” into the island’s sexual health service and has started treatment.

When asked why he attended a pharmacy for the test, IoW PCT told C+D, he said that his good relationship with his pharmacist was such that he trusted her advice and always valued the service and support he received.

This “demonstrates the value of these services being provided via community pharmacies”, IoW PCT community pharmacy lead Kevin Noble said.

“The patient is now in treatment, following rapid referral,” Mr Noble added. “He was very positive about his situation and grateful for diagnosis at an early stage as this has improved his long-term prognosis.” 

How the IOW service was built