Chronic viral hepatitis C micro-elimination program using telemedicine. The Mexican experience

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Infectious Disease Management
• Public Health

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated radical changes in medical care delivery.
• Implementing novel care mechanisms is a priority to minimize contagion risk for patients and healthcare professionals.
• Existing healthcare models require adaptation to ensure continuity of care during infectious disease outbreaks.

Discussion:

• The adapted model for hepatitis C virus (HCV) patient care in Mexico yielded substantial benefits.
• This approach addresses the challenges posed by the COVID-19 era in managing chronic infections.
• The success of this model suggests its potential applicability in other regions and for different diseases.

Key Insights:

• Innovative healthcare delivery models are crucial for managing diseases like hepatitis C virus (HCV) during pandemics.
• The Mexican HCV care model effectively mitigated contagion risks while providing essential medical services.
• Adaptability in healthcare systems is key to maintaining patient care standards amidst global health crises.

Outlook:

• Further research is needed to explore the long-term efficacy and scalability of this adapted HCV care model.
• Vaccination remains important, but innovative care strategies are vital for managing diseases like HCV.
• The principles demonstrated by this model can inform the development of resilient healthcare systems globally.