Combating Hepatitis C in One Psychiatric Facility: An Integrated Approach.

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Psychiatry
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Managing chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) in patients with severe mental illness and substance use disorder presents significant treatment challenges.
• Barriers include cognitive impairments, substance use, and lack of support systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement an HCV treatment program for patients during psychiatric hospitalization.
• To establish a multidisciplinary team for integrated care.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study of hospitalized patients with dual diagnosis (severe mental illness and substance use disorder) and positive HCV antibodies.
• Treatment with direct antiviral agents during hospitalization under multidisciplinary supervision.

Main Results:

• 17.1% prevalence of HCV antibodies among 694 dual diagnosis patients.
• 23% of HCV-positive patients completed treatment, with 63% achieving sustained virologic response.
• Treatment discontinuation was highest post-discharge; community caregiver engagement was crucial.

Conclusions:

• Treating HCV in this complex population requires interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Psychiatric hospitalization offers a unique window for initiating and monitoring HCV treatment.