Streamlining Hepatitis C Treatment: Implementation of a Clinical Pharmacist-Driven Medication Management Program

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) affects over 3.9 million individuals in the United States and is effectively treated with direct-acting antiviral (DAA) agents. Clinical pharmacists (CPs) may be the ideal provider to bridge gaps in HCV care by selecting appropriate therapy following drug-drug interaction (DDI) review, navigating access barriers, and supporting adherence. Although CP involvement in HCV care has demonstrated clinical value, there is limited literature describing CP workflows, patient interventions, and CP-led programs that support patients from treatment initiation through sustained virologic response at 12 weeks (SVR12). This study aims to quantify and categorize CP-driven enrollments in a Hepatitis C Clinical Program (HCCP) and assess its impact on patient safety, operational, and clinical outcomes.

This retrospective descriptive study evaluates a CP-driven HCCP within a health system specialty pharmacy (HSSP) from May 6, 2024 to March 6, 2025. Patients with a referral to the CP for HCV treatment selection, or external patients with a DAA claim at the HSSP, were eligible for enrollment in the program. The HCCP consisted of six points of clinical care: CP therapy selection, medication access and order placement, prescription triage and patient education, follow-up throughout treatment, intervention support, and laboratory monitoring through SVR12.

A total of 122 patients were enrolled in the HCCP. Most patients were treatment-naïve (90%) and non-cirrhotic (79%). DDIs were identified in 57% of patients, with statin therapy being the most common (46%). Time-to-treatment was 4 days or less for 76% of patients, with an 88% HSSP prescription capture rate. A 97% SVR12 rate was achieved, and 92% of patients completed therapy on time.

This study highlights the role of the CP in HCV care and their impact on patient safety and clinical and operational outcomes. Results support further development of CP-driven practice changes and support the implementation of a similar program within other HSSPs.