Ending HIV Transmission in Scotland by 2030 - elimination delivery plan 2023-2026: island communities impact assessment

4. Assessment

Whilst we should be mindful of island communities in our approach to HIV transmission elimination, there are many similarities with other remote and rural communities in Scotland. The HIVTE Delivery Plan includes awareness of the differences across Scotland including remote, rural and island communities. The plan’s actions, such as improving access to PrEP and testing (e.g. through online postal self-sampling), will support those in island and rural communities who are at risk of acquiring HIV to access services and care they require. The plan also includes developing education and strengthening awareness about HIV in order to eliminate stigma around the virus, including in rural and island communities.

NHS Boards will continue to work to meet the needs of their communities including the diversity and needs of their local population through the actions of this plan and Scottish Government will continue to ensure we work with NHS Boards to provide equity of access to HIV testing, prevention, treatment and support services for island communities.