Implementation of a multidisciplinary, team-based model to treat chronic hepatitis C in the primary care setting:...

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Primary Care Medicine
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a prevalent blood-borne virus in the U.S. with rising incidence.
• Direct-acting antiviral (DAA) medications offer highly effective Chronic Hepatitis C (CHC) treatment with few side effects.
• Primary care physicians (PCPs) are crucial for managing increased CHC treatment demand but often lack confidence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the implementation of a multidisciplinary team-based approach for CHC treatment in primary care.
• To highlight the iterative process of adapting the model using Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles.
• To share lessons learned for integrating specialty care into primary care settings.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of a multidisciplinary team-based model across multiple primary care sites within a safety net health system.
• Utilization of iterative Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles for continuous improvement and adaptation.
• Focus on team interdependence, training, ongoing support for Primary Care Hepatitis C Specialists, and response to evolving treatment landscapes.

Main Results:

• Successful implementation of a feasible and adaptable CHC treatment model in primary care.
• Demonstrated the importance of an interdependent multidisciplinary team for effective care delivery.
• Showcased the value of ongoing training and support for specialists in primary care.

Conclusions:

• A multidisciplinary team-based approach, refined through PDSA cycles, enables effective CHC treatment in primary care.
• Integrating specialty care into primary care settings is achievable and beneficial.
• Lessons learned can guide the expansion of CHC treatment and other specialty services into primary care.