Digitally enhanced testing for HIV, HBV, HCV in primary care: TARGETID
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Undiagnosed HIV, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C in primary care: Using digital technology to increase identification and improve care pathways for testing in higher risk and underserved communities (TARGET-ID): Mixed methods feasibility study
IRAS ID
326061
Contact name
Werner Leber
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Queen Mary University of London
ISRCTN Number
ISRCTN10073032
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
NA, N/A
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 8 months, 31 days
Research summary
Blood-borne viruses (BBVs) such as HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C significantly impact health, particularly among disadvantaged groups. Many affected individuals are unaware of their infection, worsening health inequalities.
Current BBV case-finding programs use imprecise methods to ‘target’ people who may have BBV, resulting in large numbers of people being tested unnecessarily with negative results whilst positive cases may be missed. To improve this, we have collaborated with the Community Advisory and Lived Experience Board (CAB)—comprising individuals with direct BBV experience—to co-design a more effective targeted testing program. This will reduce the numbers of people testing negative and increase the numbers testing positive. This initiative has used routinely collected data in the GP electronic health records, to develop a computer algorithm that estimates the risk that a patient may have a BBV.
In this phase of our study, we are piloting the implementation of this algorithm for use in selected GP practices,
Our method includes:
Research review: Analysing studies which use healthcare computer systems to identify individuals at high-risk of BBV.
Risk scoring system: Developing a tool that estimates infection likelihood on a scale from 1 (very high risk) to 1000 (very low risk).
Together with the CAB and NHS stakeholders, we've developed an intervention involving:
• Algorithm-based identification: Identifying high-risk patients in general practice.
• Personalised invitations for testing: Sending individuals with high risk of BBV a personalised text message with a video and a link to schedule a venous blood test.
• Peer support: Providing support and alternative finger-prick testing options for those declining venous blood tests
• Providing support to people testing positive for a BBV and support into specialist treatment and care.We propose piloting this case-finding and support program in six general practices across London, Bristol, and Leicester. This pilot will refine our approach based on patient and staff feedback, aiming to enhance health outcomes and reduce inequalities for those with BBVs.
REC name
London - Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/LO/0187
Date of REC Opinion
9 Jun 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion