In a Critical State: Ongoing Barriers to Treatment for Hepatitis C Virus (HCV)

Editorial

In a Critical State: Ongoing Barriers to Treatment for Hepatitis C Virus (HCV)

Jorge Mera, MD, Brigg Reilley, MPH, Jessica Leston, David Stephens, RN

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amjmed.2018.10.031

The American Journal of Medicine

Publication History

Published online: November 24, 2018

Abstract 

Recent advances in Hepatitis C Virus HCV treatment could be described as revolutionary: for uncomplicated patients, treatment is nearly 100% effective, oral-only, has a low pill burden, minimal side effects, and results in a cure.1 Comparisons we have heard from clinicians are that HCV is now easier to treat than either diabetes or hypertension. Unfortunately for many patients, their state of residence is the decisive factor for whether they will receive lifesaving treatment. As part of a tribal telehealth network for HCV, we support several rural clinics successfully treating HCV and see this dilemma all too frequently.

Consider a patient with chronic HCV infection who presents with a recent history of marijuana use and has been late picking up hypertension medication. The patient has cirrhosis and is at high risk of HCV related mortality. He is enrolled in state Medicaid and highly motivated for treatment. What is the treatment plan? It depends on the state. A resident of New Mexico can start treatment without delay. If instead the patient lives in Montana, a state that determines treatment eligibility based on advanced liver fibrosis, documented sobriety, and compliance with existing medications, the consultation is effectively moot; treatment will be denied. Montana is far from alone in its HCV treatment restrictions. Patients in South Dakota, Oregon, and several other states we serve face similar hurdles …

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