Liver International review article - "Barriers to Hepatitis C Treatment"

(Review article authored by Christopher E. McGowan and Michael W. Fried from the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, UNC Liver Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Chapel Hill, NC, US. Click on the link attached for a PDF copy of the article) Abstract: "Despite the availability of highly effective therapy for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, few patients receive treatment. Barriers arising at multiple levels, from diagnosis to specialist referral, may impede the delivery of hepatitis C care. At the patient level, lack of awareness, fear of side effects, poor adherence and comorbid conditions may prevent treatment. For providers,limited knowledge, lack of availability and communication difficulties may be problematic. At the government and payer level, a lack of promotion, surveillance and funding may interfere. Each of these barriers needs to be addressed if wider implementation of antiviral therapy is to be achieved."