The Central Region Hep C Programme provides FREE community-based hepatitis C assessment and treatment services throughout the lower North Island. With specialist clinical oversight our team of nurses and support workers work alongside contracted providers and other community-based services to offer hepatitis C screening and treatment, liver fibroscans, advice and education. Regular clinics are offered at needle exchange services, and funding is available to support patients accessing GP services.
The Central Region Hepatitis C Programme:
- Funds regional General Practice teams to provide a free treatment consultation for patients with hepatitis C.
- Provides a mobile fibroscanning service, accepting referrals from GP's and community providers.
- Supports free hepatitis C Point of Care testing in needle exchanges, pharmacies, kaupapa Māori and community providers (see stickittohepc.co.nz to locate a provider in your region).
- Supports patients with direct acting antiviral treatment (Maviret).
- Offers ongoing education and support to various healthcare and social service providers to increase the awareness of hepatitis C risk and improve links to treatment pathways.