Building a Hepatitis C Clinical Program: Strategies to Optimize Outcomes.

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment has shifted from specialist-driven to a more accessible model.
• Non-specialists and diverse healthcare providers are increasingly involved in HCV care.
• Optimizing HCV care delivery is crucial for improving patient outcomes and achieving viral cure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate and describe optimal strategies for improving hepatitis C virus (HCV) care delivery.
• To guide specialists and non-specialists in developing effective clinical programs for HCV treatment.
• To enhance patient engagement, treatment access, and post-treatment care for HCV.

Main Methods:

• Review of established recommendations for HCV screening and diagnosis.
• Implementation of multi-modal approaches including care coordination and technology for patient engagement.
• Systematic documentation, prior authorization, and appeal processes to optimize treatment access.
• Emphasis on medication adherence, side effect management, and barrier elimination for treatment monitoring.
• Post-treatment engagement strategies to promote liver health and prevent complications or reinfection.

Main Results:

• HCV screening and diagnosis should adhere to established guidelines.
• Multi-modal strategies are essential to address disparities in HCV diagnosis and linkage to care.
• Optimized access to HCV treatment involves efficient administrative processes.
• Effective treatment monitoring requires attention to adherence, side effects, and practical barriers.
• Post-treatment engagement is key to maximizing long-term benefits and preventing reinfection.

Conclusions:

• The paradigm of HCV treatment has evolved, enabling non-specialists to offer curative therapies.
• Innovative, multidisciplinary practice models are vital for improving all stages of HCV care.
• These models are expected to enhance screening, diagnosis, patient engagement, and overall treatment success.
• Widespread application of these strategies can lead to better outcomes in HCV care delivery.