Authors

Tina Truong

Publication Date

8-2021

Abstract

The number of individuals infected with the hepatitis C virus (HCV) in the United States (US) continues to rise with nearly 2.4 million Americans infected in 2016. Recent hepatology guidelines have simplified screening, monitoring, and treatment guidelines for HCV, including recommending treatment of all infected individuals who are not nearing end of life. Despite changes to recommendations and simplified treatments, patients continue to face barriers accessing care, especially as the US faces the COVID-19 pandemic. A doctorate nursing student took this opportunity and evaluated practices within a comprehensive adult primary care clinic to develop and implement telehealth delivery of hepatitis C treatment. A new workflow was developed along with advanced tracking of patients within the electronic health record (EHR); therefore, improving tracking of patient treatment course and status. From consult to the HCV team to completion of treatment with confirmation of cure, episodes of care (EOC) allowed for adequate tracking of patient status. A 60-minute provider education session on the EHR process showed significant (p

Conclusion: Initiation and completion of HCV treatment is possible through telehealth visits with proper provider training and workflow process. This is important to note when considering expansion of HCV treatment within and outside organizations to increase overall access to treatment and achievement of cure.

Author Supplied Keywords

Episodes of care, Hepatitis C, Workflow, Education, Serology

Subjects

Hepatitis C virus; Medical telematics; Serology; Therapeutics--Research

Publication Information

Copyright for this work is retained by the author.

NRS 662 - DNP Scholarly Project III

Document Type

Doctoral Project

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