Washington’s hepatitis C elimination initiative improves treatment access, reduces costs Washington State’s hepatitis C elimination initiative has expanded access to testing and treatment while reducing per-patient costs, according to a University of Washington-led study published in JAMA Network Open. The initiative, launched under Governor Jay Inslee’s 2018 directive to eliminate hepatitis C by 2030, has led to a sharp increase in hepatitis C virus (HCV) testing and improved treatment outcomes across the state. Researchers analyzed medical claims data from January 2017 to September 2022, covering approximately 6-8 million Washington residents per year—about 70% of the state’s population. At the end of 2017, the median number of HCV tests administered per month was 28,375. By July 2020, this number had risen to a peak of 99,161 tests per month, reflecting the initiative’s impact on screening expansion. The study found that while total costs for hepatitis C-related care initially increased during the program’s early implementation due to expanded screening identifying more cases, costs have since declined. This trend occurred even as more individuals were diagnosed and linked to care, suggesting long-term savings from early intervention and curative treatment. Modern antiviral medications are more than 95% effective at curing hepatitis C infection. However, prior to the initiative, access to testing and treatment was limited, particularly for low-income individuals and marginalized communities disproportionately affected by the virus. The Hep C Free Washington initiative addressed these barriers through coordinated public health efforts, increased screening, removal of care access barriers, and a novel approach to purchasing antiviral medications at a discount. The Washington State Department of Health leads the Hep C Free Washington initiative in collaboration with tribal nations, local health jurisdictions, medical providers, and community organizations. A hepatitis C virus elimination coordinating committee was established to develop a statewide elimination strategy, with stakeholders including people affected by HCV, Tribal Nations, and public health officials. Quarterly meetings of the Hep C Free Washington initiative continue to be held, with scheduled sessions in 2026 including February 4, May 6, August 5, and November 4. These meetings are conducted via Microsoft Teams and are open to partners and stakeholders committed to the 2030 elimination goal. The initiative represents the first-in-the-nation state-led effort to eliminate hepatitis C through a comprehensive public health strategy. By integrating expanded testing, timely treatment access, and cost-saving medication procurement, Washington State aims to serve as a model for hepatitis C elimination nationwide.
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