Chronic viral hepatitis is the leading cause of liver disease in the U.S. Approximately 6 million Americans are infected with Hepatitis B or C, an estimated 110,000 of which reside in the Delaware Valley (the 8 county area surrounding Philadelphia). Developments in hepatitis treatment and possible reduction in morbidity and transmission of disease through behavior modification are effective only if persons are diagnosed and receive appropriate treatment, education and support. Barriers to effective treatment and prevention include cost, insurance difficulties, fear and misconceptions, lack of knowledge by physicians and patients, difficult treatment protocols, limited access to appropriate providers, high-risk behaviors, co-infections, and lack of social support. A regional hepatitis center was proposed to address barriers and provide comprehensive care in the Delaware Valley. Hepatitis Center planning included an assessment of the need for service. Assessment included: inventory of existing services in the region, survey of physicians to identify appropriate research and education programs, survey of patients (in person, written, and focus groups) to identify treatment, education, and support needs, and discussion with hepatitis support group members to gain insight on needed support services. This presentation describes the impact of hepatitis in the Delaware Valley, results of the needs assessment, and recommendations for development of a center designed to meet the needs for treatment, research, education and support of hepatitis patients, their families, and care providers. By providing exceptional, comprehensive services, the Hepatitis Center will serve the residents of the Delaware Valley, and as a global model for hepatitis care.
Learning Objectives: By the end of the session, participants will be able to: a) Recognize the impact of hepatitis B and C globally, nationally, and locally. b) Describe the needs of hepatitis patients, their families, and care providers. c) Identify barriers to effective hepatitis treatment, education and support. d) Develop comprehensive care plans that meet the needs of hepatitis patients.
Keywords: Needs Assessment, Hepatitis C
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.