Physicians’ Knowledge, Opinions and Perceived Barriers to Hepatitis C Care at Ain Shams University Hospital

Abstract

Background: Hepatitis C virus has global burden, but it is a potentially curable disease, with sustained virologic response among the majority of treated patients. In recent years, new treatments for hepatitis C have been approved and represent a major advancement in treatment. Objectives: This study was conducted to assess knowledge, opinions and perceived barriers to hepatitis c direct-Acting Antivirals (DAAs) based regimen among a sample of hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment providers. Methods: A Cross-sectional study on HCV treatment providers at El-Demerdash, Ain Shams University Hospital was conducted. A total of 69 physicians responded to self-administered questionnaire about their knowledge, opinions on the services provided and perception towards treatment barriers. Results: Most of physicians’ opinions agreed with the current state of HCV care as exist of guidelines, patients have adequate access to HCV treatment providers; but they disagreed about that the general public is aware of HCV and know that it is a curable disease. Most of physicians (81%) had high Knowledge level of HCV treatment principles. The most perceived barriers to care were Payer-related barriers followed by government-related barriers and patient-related barriers. Conclusion: The study highlights the most perceived barriers that may impede the prompt and appropriate treatment of hepatitis C virus infection reported by treating physicians. Therefore, it is important to engage HCV treatment providers in Educational programs that can help to modify their knowledge about HCV treatment and related services, and their communication and practice in guiding patients in their treatment course.