Optimizing assessment and treatment for hepatitis C virus infection in illicit drug users: a novel model incorporating multidisciplinary care and peer support

Objectives We evaluated assessment and treatment for hepatitis C virus (HCV) among illicit drug users accepting referral to a weekly HCV peer-support group at a multidisciplinary community health centre. Methods From March 2005 to 2008, HCV-infected individuals were referred to a weekly peer-support group and assessed for HCV infection. A retrospective chart review of outcomes 3 years after the initiation of the group was conducted (including HCV assessment and treatment). Results Two hundred and four HCV antibody-positive illicit drug users accepted referral to a weekly HCV peer-support group. Assessment for HCV occurred in 53% of patients (n = 109), with 13% (n = 14) having initiated or completed treatment for HCV infection before attending the support group, evaluation ongoing in 10% (n = 11) and treatment deferred/not indicated in 25% (n = 27). The major reasons for HCV treatment deferral included early disease (30%), drug dependence (37%), other medical (11%) or psychiatric comorbidities (4%). Sixty-eight percent of those deferred for reasons other than early liver disease showed multiple reasons for treatment deferral. The first 4 weeks of support group attendance predicted successful HCV assessment (odds ratio: 6.03, 95% confidence interval: 3.27-11.12, P < 0.001). Overall, 28% (n = 57) received treatment. Among individuals having completed pegylated-interferon and ribavirin therapy with appropriate follow-up (n = 19), the rate of sustained virologic response was 63% (12/19), despite illicit drug use in 53%. Conclusion A high proportion of illicit drug users accepting referral to a weekly HCV peer-support group at a multidisciplinary health centre were assessed and treated for HCV infection. Peer support coupled with multidisciplinary care is an effective strategy for engaging illicit drug users in HCV care. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 22: 270-277 (C) 2010 Wolters Kluwer Health vertical bar Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.