Hepatitis C Treatment in Probation and Parole Office

Prospective Cohort Study to Determine Effectiveness of Telemedicine-based on Site Hepatitis C Management in Probation and Parole Office

This prospective cohort study compares aims to determine the efficacy and effectiveness of telemedicine-supported on-site linkage to care and treatment in a community probation and parole office (P&P office) setting and compare the results with a historic control with referral to care. Research participants will be followed in the P&P office when they report to their officer during regularly scheduled appointments. Participants will receive treatment without having to travel to a specialist's office. The telemedicine visit will include a consultation with an experienced HCV provider such as a hepatologist or an advanced practice provider and a specialty pharmacist who will educate about and monitor HCV treatment. The UK specialty pharmacy will be available to participants and the HCV management team through a 24-hour support line. Participants will be treated per HCV guidelines and insurance preference.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Clients who will be supervised in the probation and parole office for at least 5 months
• History of hepatitis C
• Able to obtain health insurance
• Capacity to provide written, informed consent
• Life expectancy >1 year

Exclusion Criteria:

• Negative HCV RNA
• Pregnant or breast-feeding
• HIV or HBV co-infection
• Liver cirrhosis with Child-Turcotte-Pugh score 6 or greater at baseline lab work
• Subjects with impaired capacity to provide informed consent