Controlling hepatitis C in Rwanda: a framework for a national response

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Hepatology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Direct-acting antiviral drugs offer effective hepatitis C treatment.
• Access to treatment is limited in low- and middle-income countries due to infrastructure and cost barriers.
• International bodies encourage national public health responses for hepatitis C control.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline Rwanda's public health framework for hepatitis C control and care.
• To detail the implementation of policies, prevention, screening, treatment, and information systems.
• To highlight successes and challenges in a national hepatitis C program.

Main Methods:

• Development and implementation of national policies and programs for hepatitis C.
• Establishment of national governance, planning, and diagnostic capacity.
• Introduction of direct-acting antiviral treatments and training of personnel.

Main Results:

• Successful establishment of national governance and planning for hepatitis C control.
• Development of diagnostic capacity and introduction of direct-acting antiviral treatments.
• Key successes include political will, leadership, and strategic partnerships.

Conclusions:

• Rwanda has made significant progress in hepatitis C control through a comprehensive national strategy.
• Challenges include developing robust monitoring and evaluation frameworks and decentralizing care.
• Further integration into routine services and increased financing are crucial for improved patient access and outcomes.