Treating chronic hepatitis C in general practice

Kate Muller1, Mohamed Hasan2

  • 1MBBS, PhD, FRACP, Staff Specialist, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, SA; Senior Lecturer, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA.

Insights

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment is now achievable in general practice using safe and effective direct-acting antivirals (DAAs). This approach expands patient access and supports Australia

Area of Science:

  • Hepatology
  • Virology
  • General Practice Medicine

Background:

  • Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection remains a significant public health concern in Australia, contributing to considerable morbidity and mortality.
  • Many individuals remain unaware of their HCV infection, hindering eradication efforts.
  • The advent of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) offers a paradigm shift, enabling higher viral eradication rates and improved treatment accessibility.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide guidance on the utilization of pan-genotypic direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) for Hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment.
  • To outline criteria for referring patients to specialist care when necessary.

Main Methods:

  • This article focuses on the practical application of pan-genotypic DAAs in a general practice setting.
  • It emphasizes the safety and tolerability of current DAAs, facilitating their use by general practitioners.

Main Results:

  • General practice-based treatment of HCV with DAAs can significantly increase patient access to care.
  • This decentralized model reduces the burden on specialist services (gastroenterologists, hepatologists, infectious diseases physicians).

Conclusions:

  • Hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment is feasible and highly effective in general practice using pan-genotypic DAAs.
  • Expanding treatment into primary care settings is crucial for advancing HCV eradication goals in Australia and preventing advanced liver disease.
Abstract

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