Reaching hepatitis C virus elimination targets requires health system interventions to enhance the care cascade

Abstract

Background Modelling suggests that achieving the World Health Organization's elimination targets for hepatitis C virus (HCV) is possible by scaling up use of direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy. However, poor linkage to health services and retention in care presents a major barrier, in particular among people who inject drugs (PWID). We identify and assess the cost-effectiveness of additional health system interventions required to achieve HCV elimination targets in Australia, a setting where all people living with HCV have access to DAA therapy. Methods We used a dynamic HCV transmission and liver-disease progression mathematical model among current and former PWID, capturing testing, tre..