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Learning Objectives for this Presentation:
By the end of the presentation participants will be able to:
1. Identify the strengths and limitations in the HCV knowledge of healthcare providers in this study
2. Understand the importance of a good HCV knowledge base for healthcare providers
3. Apply this knowledge to the development of HCV training for healthcare providers
Background:
Hepatitis C virus is the most common chronic blood borne pathogen in the United States. There are an estimated 2.7 million chronic infections in the US. HCV carries with it a heavy burden of lost lives, financial hardship, and significant decreases in quality of life.
Methods:
During the summer of 2004, the Scott County Health Department conducted a survey of local healthcare providers and laboratory managers examining current knowledge and practices regarding screening, evaluation and treatment of HCV patients. Surveys were sent to 110 providers of HCV services (105 healthcare providers, 5 laboratories).
Results:
Survey results identified significant knowledge gaps especially with regard to the importance of the patient's clinical history and risk factors when interpreting screening test results and the current CDC recommendations for anti-HCV negative and indeterminate results. Approximately one-quarter of providers indicated that they treat un- or underinsured patients, were aware of local resources to aid in treating these individuals and would consider treating more patients without adequate insurance if additional resources were made available. Results indicate varied compliance with current CDC laboratory guidelines for HCV testing.
Conclusions:
Planning for detection, evaluation, treatment and prevention of chronic HCV requires that healthcare providers understand who should be offered testing, the best algorithms for the application of available testing techniques and their interpretation, the appropriate evaluation and referral of HCV infected patients, and the availability of resources to support these activities. An understanding of the gaps in these services can inform future development and dedication of resources.
See more of Poster Session #2
See more of The 2005 National Viral Hepatitis Prevention Conference