Researchers tackle gaps in hepatitis C treatment

“Do One Thing” seeks to provide screenings, treatment to underserved communities

A program run by University researchers aims to quickly identify and provide comprehensive treatment for medically underserved patients who are chronically infected with the hepatitis C virus, according to a new study published in the Feb. 14 issue of the Journal of General Internal Medicine.

Hepatitis C — a blood-borne disease that inflames the liver — is an “underfunded, understudied and seriously large health problem,” said Amy Nunn, assistant professor of behavioral and social sciences and medicine, who co-authored the study.

“Its magnitude is not to be underestimated and there are at least five to seven times as many people living with hepatitis C than its more infamous counterpart, HIV,” Nunn said. Unlike for hepatitis A and B, there is no vaccination available for hepatitis C. 

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Study: Door-to-door campaign linked hepatitis C patients to care

Effort overcame the many hurdles to specialized treatment for Philadelphia's medically underserved

PROVIDENCE, R.I. [Brown University] -- In Philadelphia, as in many cities, neighborhoods with high rates of hepatitis C virus (HCV) often also have limited access to screening and treatment. A new study in the Journal of General Internal Medicine shows that when expert advocates made a focused effort in a medically underserved area, they were able to help vulnerable patients leap each of the many hurdles that often keep people out of care.

"This study demonstrates the importance of community-based testing for HCV in identifying previously undiagnosed individuals and re-engaging those aware of their diagnosis but not currently in care," Trooskin said. "We learned that a comprehensive approach to nonclinical testing is critical and must integrate immediate access to confirmatory testing as well as intensive patient navigation to effectively link patients to care. Although hepatitis C is now a curable disease, we identified new barriers to care such as the need for a referral to subspecialty care and challenges obtaining medication approval for patients, particularly those covered under Medicaid."

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