Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a blood borne virus which can result in cirrhosis and liver cancer if left untreated. There is no vaccination however HCV can be cured with a short course of direct acting antivirals (DAAs) tablets. In view of this, the UK aims to eliminate HCV in the next decade by upscaling testing and treatment in those at greatest risk. 92.1% of HCV cases are in people who inject drugs (PWIDs) (PHE, 2019). Identifying, engaging and treating this client group is therefore paramount to successful HCV elimination.
The objective of the clinic was to establish an accessible, client-friendly service that links HCV treatment services to shared care (GP-based) opiate substitution therapy (OST) prescribing services in rural parts of the county. The ultimate goal is to achieve HCV micro-elimination in the town, in line with national targets.
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