Opportunities to eliminate viral hepatitis disparities through community health centers

Up to 5.3 million people (two percent of the U.S. population) are living with chronic hepatitis B or hepatitis C. Yet, because these viruses often present no symptoms, most people who have them are unaware until they develop liver cancer or liver disease many years later. These outcomes are preventable.

A landmark Institute of Medicine (IOM) report finds that these diseases are not widely recognized as serious public health problems, programs have inadequate resources, and that the current approach to the prevention and control of chronic hepatitis B and hepatitis C is not working.

IOM report recommendations provide guidance and a critical opportunity for community health centers (CHCs) to address viral hepatitis by increasing knowledge and awareness among providers, integrating viral hepatitis services such as testing and vaccination into existing programs- especially those that serve at risk groups such as immigrants, minorities, people with a history of drug use, and others with high rates of infection. Many patients of CHCs have risk factors but have not been offered testing, counseling, or care for their chronic infection. Implementation of these recommendations throughout the CHC network would identify a large number of patients who could then be educated, counseled, and medically managed to prevent liver cancer, liver disease, liver failure and death.

Further, the development of a model for comprehensive management and treatment for chronic hepatitis B and C would enable many patients to establish or remain in a medical home where they can receive culturally and linguistically appropriate information and services.