Author: Nguyen O K, Dore G J, Kaldor J M, Hellard M E
Journal: The International Journal of Drugs Policy, 2007
Volume/pages: Vol 18, pp447-451

About the study
The paper reports on an ongoing study in Australia of a Hepatitis C treatment programme for injecting drug users. Participants must have contracted Hepatitis C within the last two years and are referred through primary or tertiary care. Treated and untreated participants are followed up for up to three years. Participants are regularly reviewed by a multidisciplinary team.

Findings
The three case studies provided suggest that although physicians can be reluctant to treat injecting drug users due to their perceived ‘chaotic’ lifestyles, access to Hepatitis C Virus treatment provided participants with an opportunity to take responsibility for their own health. They also suggest that such a programme can be successful in spite of ongoing drug use or associated depression. Strategies were put in place to facilitate patient attendance and adherence to the treatment programme such as flexible clinic hours, reminder phone calls and help with getting to and from appointments. A multidisciplinary team facilitated a holistic approach to participant care and this contributed greatly to the long-term success of participants.

Key messages

• A multidisciplinary approach can successfully engage a highly marginalised population and address the potential barriers to Hepatitis C Virus treatment for injecting drug users.