34th AM (2023) - Poster Session-Impact of onsite phlebotomy services to promote HCV screening among high risk Veterans with OUD

Impact of onsite phlebotomy services to promote HCV screening among high risk Veterans with OUD

Pdf Summary

The study aimed to assess the impact of on-site phlebotomy services during a health fair on hepatitis C screening rates among high-risk patients enrolled in a U.S. Veterans Administration opioid treatment program. The researchers organized a health fair, where veterans in the program could receive hepatitis C screening and other related tests. Providers were available to order labs in real-time and answer questions. Screening included collecting blood for HCV antibodies and reflex testing for HCV RNA if antibodies were positive. Results were communicated to veterans within 48 hours, and those with positive results were linked to care. <br /><br />The study found that 44 veterans attended the health fair, and 12 of them completed labs for hepatitis C screening using the on-site phlebotomy services. Three veterans were recommended to receive the Hepatitis A vaccine, and seven were recommended to receive the Hepatitis B vaccine series. One veteran was confirmed to have chronic HCV infection and was connected to care. <br /><br />The findings suggest that providing on-site phlebotomy services at a health fair can effectively increase hepatitis C screening rates among high-risk patients in a Veterans Administration opioid treatment program. The study highlights the importance of integrating viral hepatitis testing, prevention, and treatment services into opioid treatment programs as a response to the increasing opioid misuse and infectious diseases. The health fair venue provided a comfortable space for collaboration between services and engaged veterans where they were familiar. <br /><br />Overall, the study demonstrates the feasibility and effectiveness of on-site phlebotomy services in promoting hepatitis C screening among high-risk patients in a Veterans Administration program. This low-resource and convenient approach can improve veteran health through hepatitis testing and linkage to care.

Keywords

on-site phlebotomy services

health fair

hepatitis C screening

high-risk patients

U.S. Veterans Administration

opioid treatment program

HCV antibodies

HCV RNA

viral hepatitis testing

linkage to care

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