Diagnosis, Monitoring, and Management of Hepatitis C

Course Description:
This activity will address the diagnosis and treatment of the Hepatitis C Virus. Attendees will learn about Kentucky’s Hepatitis C Elimination Plan and strategies for communicating with patients and overcoming prior authorization barriers.

Statement of Need:
78,000 physicians are living with Hepatitis C Virus. These numbers may not be accurate as many people may not be screened and/or diagnosed for the virus.  Significant savings would be generated through increased investment in HCV outreach, screening, and treatment:

• Private Insurance: $10-14 billion over 20 years
• Medicare: $4-12 billion over 20 years5
• Medicaid: $3.8 billion over enrollees’ lifetime

Citation:  https://aidsinstitute.net/documents/Fact-Sheet—Treating-Hepatitis-C-Saves-Lives-and-Money.pdf

Physicians need to be able to assess, diagnose, treat and refer patients who may be at risk for HPC Virus.  Lack of information about available treatments and proper screening and communication exist and can be addressed through education opportunities and availability of resources. 

Objectives:

OVERVIEW:

• Describe the epidemiologic profile of the hepatitis C epidemic in the United States and in Kentucky.

HEPATITIS ELIMINATION PLAN

• Provide overview of elimination plan and strategy

COUNSELING/PATIENT DISCUSSION:

• Summarize common routes of HCV transmission
• Discuss appropriate counseling to prevent transmission of HCV
• Utilization of appropriate language when speaking to patients

SCREENING RECOMMENDATIONS/TESTING

• Describe screening and supplemental tests used for diagnosing HCV infection

TREATMENT

• Clinical features of patients presenting with acute HCV infection
• Compare previous treatment vs. current treatment
  • Discuss easy pathways to treatment

BARRIERS

• Medicaid barriers-prior authorization
• Tips for successful prior authorization submission

FUTURE OF TREATMENT APPROACHES

• Discussion of regulations and changes in the next 2-5 years