Hepatitis C—Everything a Primary Care Physician Needs to Know About Diagnosis, Management, and Follow-Up

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Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a major public health concern, with more than 58 million people chronically infected worldwide. The management of HCV, once the domain of specialists only, has been revolutionized by the advent of direct-acting antiviral therapies. To reduce the burden of HCV in the United States (US), emphasis is now being placed on the involvement of primary care physicians in the management of HCV patients. Inclusion of more primary care providers in the HCV diagnosis and treatment initiatives can assist in achieving the goal of HCV elimination, especially in the medically underserved areas. To actively engage in the management of HCV, primary care providers must understand its epidemiology, risk factors, natural history, current treatment regimen, and potential complications. This manuscript reviews these key areas, along with presenting the cost-effectiveness of treatment and evidence-based guidelines for follow-up care in adults with chronic HCV infection who have undergone HCV treatment. Equipped with this foundational knowledge about HCV management, primary care physicians can play a vital role in eliminating HCV.

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