Population-level cascade of care for hepatitis C in Newfoundland and Labrador

Abstract

Background: Global elimination of hepatitis C virus (HCV) is feasible using existent tools. Reporting the provincial HCV care cascade will contribute to national and global HCV elimination efforts. Methods: This observational study was a secondary use of population-level medical record data, including laboratory results for HCV testing and prescription data for HCV treatment in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador (NL). All patients with HCV antibody testing performed between Jan 1, 2017 and Jan 1, 2022 were included. All prescriptions dispensed from a community pharmacy in NL for any HCV treatment during the same period were included. Results: There were 84,252 antibody tests included. Of these, 3,626 (4.3%) tests were positive for HCV antibodies. Seventy eight percent (1,377/1,766) of the individuals with positive antibody tests were tested for HCV RNA. Only 377/1,061 (35.5%) individuals with a positive RNA test were treated, and 257/395 (65.1%) achieved sustained virological response at 12 weeks. Conclusions: NL has successfully identified and treated HCV, but treatment access is low. Targets for improvement include increased screening, reflex testing of positive antibody with RNA, increased linkage to care, change in treatment funding policy, and quicker treatment funding decision.