Hepatitis C in Wisconsin Jails: Barriers to Testing and Treatment During Incarceration

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Justice-involved individuals experience high rates of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection.
• Wisconsin's viral hepatitis elimination plan targets this high-risk population.
• Understanding jail-based HCV testing and treatment capacity is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the current capacity for HCV testing and treatment within Wisconsin correctional facilities.
• To identify barriers to providing comprehensive HCV services in jails.

Main Methods:

• A survey was distributed to administrators of 71 county jails and 1 Tribal detention facility.
• The survey assessed current HCV testing and treatment practices and perceived barriers.
• Response data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Main Results:

• Only 41.7% of facilities responded to the survey.
• HCV testing was available in 33.3% of responding jails, and treatment in 51.7%.
• Key barriers included lack of contracted services, staffing shortages, financial restrictions, and short incarceration durations.

Conclusions:

• Significant gaps in HCV testing and treatment capacity exist within Wisconsin jails.
• Effective HCV therapies and Medicaid coverage have not translated into widespread jail-based services.
• Collaborations with health departments and policy reforms are needed to enhance HCV care access for incarcerated populations.