Public Health Minister Maree Todd reaffirmed the government’s commitment to end HIV Transmission in Scotland by 2030, highlighting the target as a clear example of how prevention, testing and treatment could improve people’s health and wellbeing.
Speaking ahead of a Sexual Health and Blood Borne Virus Action Plan Development Event today (Monday), Ms Todd outlined her intention to develop a dedicated HIV Action Plan for Scotland – building on the significant progress made in recent years.
She said: “Our Programme for Government recognises that better outcomes depend on prevention as well as good access to care and treatment.
'Tackling HIV transmission has a vital role to play in supporting this aim – it’s a clear example of how prevention improves lives.
'That’s why it is vital we ensure it continues to receive dedicated focus as we build on the significant progress achieved in recent years including the roll out of opt out testing in A&E departments – something we have committed to continuing over the next five years, expansion of access to PrEP and a successful public anti-stigma campaign.
'The next phase of our work will include a successor to the HIV Transmission Elimination Delivery Plan, complementing our wider approach to sexual health and blood borne viruses.
'I look forward to working with stakeholders to develop this plan over the coming months.'
Alan Eagleson, Head of Terrence Higgins Trust Scotland, said:
'The commitment to a new standalone HIV Action Plan is extremely welcome and we are grateful that the Scottish Government has heard our calls.
'The development of a new HIV Action Plan will provide renewed focus as we work towards our national goal to end new transmissions of HIV in Scotland by 2030. This opportunity is historic: get it right and Scotland could be the first country in the world to end the HIV epidemic. If achieved, it will be the first virus to have transmissions stopped without a vaccine or a cure.
'A new plan will be vital in driving forward the action needed to diagnose people earlier, improve access to prevention tools – like PrEP, its new injectable formulation and rapid HIV testing – and ensure that everyone living with HIV in Scotland can access the treatment, care and support they need to live well, free of stigma. We look forward to working with the government, public health and our sector partners to turn this ambition into action. Together we will ensure that the voices of people living with HIV in Scotland are at the heart of the plan and influence every action.'
