Pharmacy-based screening program to detect hepatitis C in 'baby-boomer' cohorts in western Canada.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The estimated prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in Canada is approximately 1.0%. However, the number of individuals living with HCV but unaware of it is estimated to be 30%-44%. Increased screening programs that are accessible, effective, and feasible are important to ensure treatment and meet WHO elimination goals. We implemented an HCV point of care test (POCT) program in community pharmacies to examine the effectiveness and feasibility in screening.

Methods

Twenty two London Drugs pharmacies in British Columbia and Alberta implemented an HCV POC screening program using OraQuick rapid antibody tests. Consenting patients filled out a 10-question screening questionnaire to examine risk factors. The participants then were tested using the POCT. While waiting fo

SUBMITTER: Chiew BA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10751003 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature