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Hepatitis C, diagnosis and management: a survey of practicing physicians in Hawaii
1Epidemiology Branch, Department of Health, 1250 Punchbowl Street, 4th Floor, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA. tmcashma@mail.health.state.hi.us
Insights
Fewer than 20% of Hawaii physicians diagnose hepatitis C (HCV). An estimated 12,000–18,000 HCV cases remain undiagnosed, straining current treatment resources and necessitating broader physician involvement.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Hepatitis C (HCV) is a significant public health concern.
- Understanding physician diagnosis patterns is crucial for effective HCV management.
- Hawaii faces a substantial burden of undiagnosed HCV cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the prevalence of hepatitis C (HCV) diagnosis among Hawaii physicians.
- To estimate the number of undiagnosed HCV cases in Hawaii.
- To evaluate the capacity of current resources for HCV detection and treatment.
Main Methods:
- Survey of 652 physicians in Hawaii who diagnosed hepatitis C (HCV) since 1997.
- Analysis of physician diagnostic data to estimate undiagnosed HCV prevalence.
- Assessment of treatment concentration and resource capacity.
Main Results:
- Less than 20% of licensed physicians in Hawaii have diagnosed HCV.
- Estimated 12,000 to 18,000 undiagnosed HCV cases in Hawaii.
- HCV treatment is concentrated among a small group of physicians (twelve).
Conclusions:
- Current resources may be overwhelmed by aggressive HCV case finding.
- Increased participation of primary care physicians in HCV detection and management is essential.
- A broader physician network is needed to address the undiagnosed HCV burden in Hawaii.
Abstract:
We surveyed 652 Hawaii physicians who diagnosed hepatitis C (HCV) since 1997. Less than 20% of licensed physicians have diagnosed HCV and initial estimates suggest there are 12,000 to 18,000 undiagnosed HCV cases in Hawaii. Treatment is concentrated among twelve physicians and aggressive case finding may overwhelm present resources. More primary care physicians need to participate in the detection and management of HCV.