Theme: Models of Care Year: 2024
Background: NHS England (NHSE) are seeking to achieve the elimination of Hepatitis C (HCV) by 2025. To help achieve this ambition, Gilead Sciences and Change Grow Live (CGL), a national drug treatment service (DTS) provider, have partnered to increase HCV testing and treatment in all CGL services. Some CGL services were identified that required additional support to deliver the improvements in testing and treatment required, to achieve HCV micro-elimination (ME).
Description of model of care/intervention: Additional funding was agreed to support an HCV Specialist Intervention Worker (HCVSIW) to improve HCV care and to achieve ME. This model included developing patient specific engagement plans. The HCVSIW reviewed patient level data to ascertain where the person was on the HCV pathway; tested the patient for HCV, referred PCR positive patients into treatment, worked with the treatment team to ensure the patient completed their treatment and accurately recorded the outcome in the patient record. Additionally, the HCVSIW trained other staff on the model to ensure consistency of HCV care across the service.
Effectiveness: Dedicated roles can provide leadership to drive increases in testing, diagnosis & treatment.
Service Achievements For 9 months before & after HCVSIW.
Conclusion and next steps: Embedding dedicated HCV lead roles in individual DTS can accelerate progress to micro-elimination and may be considered by commissioners for future service specifications.
Disclosure of Interest Statement: These activities and roles have been developed and funded by Gilead Sciences Ltd in collaboration with representatives from Gilead-partnered DTS providers and The Hepatitis C Trust as part of the NHS England HCV Elimination Programme.