Sharing injection drug use equipment remains the most common mode of hepatitis C virus (HCV) transmission in the United States, but people who inject drugs (PWID) often face barriers to accessing treatment. Co-locating HCV treatment at syringe access programs (SAPs) has been shown to reduce these barriers, and telemedicine-based programs may further expand access. A survey of 171 SAP clients in Denver, Colorado, aimed to assess interest in such programs and identify the barriers to HCV treatment among PWID.

Of the surveyed clients, 52% reported current or prior HCV infection, with ongoing drug use, logistical barriers, and difficulties navigating the medical system as common reasons for not seeking treatment. Many clients (88%) indicated they would be more likely to pursue treatment if it were available at the SAP, particularly those who generally avoid medical care. While in-person appointments were preferred, 77% were open to video appointments. However, only 60% had access to a phone, and 48% had video capability. These findings suggest that while telemedicine could improve access to HCV treatment at SAPs, overcoming barriers to participation in telemedicine appointments will be key to successful implementation.

Reference: Loy DE, Kamis K, Kanatser R, Rowan SE. Barriers to Hepatitis C Treatment and Interest in Telemedicine-Based Care Among Clients of a Syringe Access Program. Open Forum Infect Dis. 2024;11(3):ofae088. doi: 10.1093/ofid/ofae088.