Data from the University of Washington show the state’s efforts to eliminate hepatitis C are working and might even be saving the state money.

The study shows that a state plan to eliminate the virus by 2030 has led to a 45% decline in new cases between 2018 to 2021.

Hepatitis C is a curable, bloodborne virus that surged about a decade ago in Washington alongside increased opioid use and needle sharing.

Pam Kohler, lead investigator in the study, explained that a combination of more and earlier treatment led to significant savings over time for the state.

"Initially, that cost went up as we found more people that needed to be treated," she said. "but then eventually the cost per person went down over time, presumably as fewer people needed to be treated with advanced medical care."

The study found the treatment cost per patient decreased from more than $500 to about $125 per month over four years.

Kohler added that former Gov. Jay Inslee, who started the program, also lowered prices for the antiviral drugs by setting up a subscription model with a pharmaceutical company.

Emalie Huriaux, acting director of the Office of Infectious Disease at the Washington State Department of Health, said the study shows there's cause for celebration, but there's still more work ahead. So far, efforts have mostly reached insured and easier-to-access populations. Now, she said, the state must focus on those less likely to have access to medical care or health insurance, such as people living rurally or experiencing homelessness.

"We're now at this critical phase where the folks who are left with untreated hepatitis C are going to be the most challenging to connect to care and require the most attention and resourcing," she said.

She added that upcoming cuts to Medicaid along with increasing housing and financial insecurity will make the task harder.

Source: Public News Service