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Learning Objective:
By the end of the presentation, participants will be able to describe the Florida Hep-CARE project and assess application of this model in their jurisdiction.
Background:
A pilot project has been designed and implemented to provide care and treatment for clients with viral hepatitis. Currently available public health infrastructure has been strengthened by partnerships between the University of Florida College of Medicine, the Alachua County Health Department, the Florida Department of Health, and private industry.
Setting:
Alachua County Health Department in Gainesville, Florida
Population e.g. API Youth, MSM, IDU:
Adults with viral hepatitis who are medically qualified for treatment, including Medicaid and uninsured clients
Project Description:
Beginning in February 2005, the Alachua County Health Department (CHD), with training and consultation from hepatology specialists at the University of Florida, has provided a liver clinic for care and treatment of viral hepatitis. Clients are referred from many program areas and receive comprehensive evaluation to assess need for treatment; medically qualified clients receive treatment. All case management functions are provided by the CHD.
Results/Lessons Learned:
Each month, there been an increasing trend to accept referral to the clinic, to keep the clinic appointment, and to initiate treatment if qualified. Between February and June 2005, 27 clients have been scheduled for liver clinic, 16 have kept their appointment, and six have been medically qualified and started treatment. As of June 2005, all clients are still on treatment.
Public health providers, with community partners, are willing and able to provide adult hepatitis care and treatment services. Pretreatment evaluation, with subsequent treatment for those medically qualified, can be successfully provided in the CHD, with training and consultation from medical specialists.
Web Page: www.myflorida.com
See more of D5 - Developing State and Local Partnerships
See more of The 2005 National Viral Hepatitis Prevention Conference