Alan,
I am sure the DofH's answer would be in HSC 2000/020, and require viral load
tests if HBsAg positive and e-antigen negative.
Guidelines on Hep B affected HCW
http://www.doh.gov.uk/nhsexec/hepatitisb.htm
PDF file of Policy on testing re Hep B
http://www.doh.gov.uk/pdfs/hepatitisb.pdf
I have recently dealt with several persons e-antigen negative, but
significant viral loads, it wrecks careers (especially of surgeons). As
part of the counselling process I have asked them about their views of
having entered the medical profession, they have all said they would still
wish to have entered provided the risks to their patients were controlled.
I do not assess Medical Students, and look forward to seeing the revised GMC
guidance. As all of the above DofH guidance applies to nurses entering the
profession, why should it not also apply to Medical Students ? (groans about
the cost of viral load titres are unacceptable against the overall cost of
training a doctor).Appropriate OH advice should be prior to taking up a
career, but if not possible should be early in the training (not waiting
until the week before going into clinical work).
Geoff Helliwell
-----Original Message-----
From: Occ-health is a list open to everyone with an interest in
teaching, learning [mailto:[log in to unmask]]On Behalf Of Swann,
Alan B
Sent: 17 July 2001 15:32
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: HepB entry requirements for medicine
Anyone out there assessing medical students?
How are you dealing with effects of the revised DOH guidance on assessing
e-antigen negative surgeons?
Our policy till now has been to exclude applicants who are HBsAg positive,
HBeAg positive, but accept those HBsAg positive, HBeAg negative. This fits
with current, though now out-dated GMC guidance ("Fitness & conduct of
medical students.") The GMC are reviewing in the light of the DoH guidance,
but not yet decided.
What are you doing?
* Accepting only HBsAg negatives?
* Still deciding on basis of e-antigen status?
* Arranging viral load tests?
* Pondering?
Dr. Alan Swann, BM, AFOM
Director of Occupational Health
Occupational Health Service
Imperial College Health Centre
Watts Way
London
SW7 1 LU
Tel: +44 (20) 7594 9385
Fax: +44 (20) 7594 9407
http://www.ad.ic.ac.uk/occ_health/ <http://www.ad.ic.ac.uk/occ_health/>
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