World Hepatitis Day: Improve rates of hepatitis testing, treatment and care in your practice
Almost 300,000 people in Australia living with hepatitis B and C are at increased risk of liver disease and liver cancer. According to the Cancer Council's Liver Cancer Early Detection Policy, liver cancer is the fastest-growing cause of cancer death in Australia.
World Hepatitis Day on Sunday 28 July 2024 is a time for our renewed commitment to improving rates of hepatitis testing, treatment and care in the primary care setting.
While chronic hepatitis C increases a person's risk of liver cancer, hepatitis C is curable and can be managed in primary care, making primary healthcare workers and medical professionals best-placed to make a significant difference in the long-term health outcomes of people with hepatitis C.
Improve rates of hepatitis testing, treatment and care in your practice
General practices can do their part to eliminate hepatitis as a public health threat by:
• identifying patients that may be living with hepatitis B or C
• testing and treating hepatitis C
• providing regular care for people living with hepatitis B (in consultation with a specialist if required).
More support for your practice
-
Hepatitis Queensland offers education, resources, and support for primary health providers and non-clinical staff. Its Outreach Nurse and experienced team can provide patient resources, deliver 1-on-1 education for your entire practice, and help your team confidently manage patients living with viral hepatitis. You can contact Hepatitis Queensland on 07 3846 0020 for more information.
-
Clinical education and support are available through ASHM, the peak professional body representing healthcare professionals in HIV, viral hepatitis and sexually transmissible infections.
-
For primary care assessment and management of hepatitis, please see the HealthPathway for: