SWSPHN recently notified Medicare of hepatitis C virus (HCV) screening rate increases in general practices across South Western Sydney as a result of our collaboration with the South Western Sydney Local Health District (SWSLHD) on the Viral Hepatitis C Clinical Nurse Consultant project.
Direct acting antivirals (DAAs), available since 2016, have changed the landscape of treatment options for people living with HCV. GP prescribing of HCV treatment has the potential to expand the treatment workforce and increase accessibility to clients.
The collaboration aims to increase treatment uptake by people with HCV within the general practice setting. It is a supportive model which enables GPs and practice nurses to consult with a Viral Hepatitis CNC for care coordination of clients with HCV.
The project is contributing to benefits of HCV treatment including; financial benefit for the health system; upskilling GPs and practice nurses; engages people with HCV in primary care settings; engages in ‘Close the Gap’ campaign and strengthens trust among Aboriginal communities; increased screening and treating contribute to Ministry of Health targets and elimination strategies.
If you would like further information, please contact Katherine McQuillan, Community Hepatitis C CNC, HIV and Targeted Programs, on 0436 819 237 or via email at Katherine.McQuillan@health.nsw.gov.au