Engaging new migrants in infectious diseases screening at A&Es
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The feasibility of offering new migrants a one-stop blood test for TB, HIV, and hepatitis B and C in an Accident and Emergency Department: a pilot study
IRAS ID
185675
Contact name
Jon Friedland
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Joint Research Compliance Office, Imperial College London
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 7 months, 31 days
Research summary
National data shows that 70% of tuberculosis (TB) and HIV as well as the majority of hepatitis B occurs in non-UK-born populations and UK prevalence rates for these diseases is high. The Imperial College Healthcare Trust (ICHT) has large TB, HIV and hepatitis B and C services with a high percentage of migrants; we have previously shown that migrants present frequently to the Clinical Infection Service at Hammersmith Hospital and were sicker than other patients. In addition, research has shown that they present in large numbers to local Accident and Emergency (A&E) Departments, perhaps bypassing primary care and screening. Thus, the management of migrants and the early detection of potentially fatal infections of public health significance are of key local importance, reflecting the national importance of tackling such infections in migrants.
The aim of this nurse-led cross-sectional pilot study is to investigate whether offering a one stop-blood test for TB, HIV, and hepatitis B and C to new migrants (who have been in the UK for 10 years or less) from high prevalence infectious disease areas on presentation to an A&E Department improves the screening, diagnosis, and treatment of these diseases. Patients presenting to St Mary's A&E Department, who fall into the category of new migrants, will be invited to take the one-stop blood test for TB, HIV, and hepatitis B and C. We will follow routine care pathways for the follow up and treatment.REC name
London - City & East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
15/LO/1602
Date of REC Opinion
26 Oct 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion