A critical step in the eradication of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is access to effective therapy. With the advent of interferon-free regimens, HCV providers and patients gained hope that the success seen in clinical trials could be translated to the real world. However, the exorbitant cost of the new direct-acting antivirals limits access to these medications to the general HCV population, especially underserved patients with public insurance. We used a descriptive qualitative approach to detail the measures necessary and challenges faced by an inner-city nursing team in Washington, DC to obtain the new direct-acting antivirals. Significant time and dedication on the part of providers and staff was required to assist patients with the process of obtaining direct-acting antivirals.
Keywords: HCV; HIV; direct-acting antivirals; managed care organizations; sustained virologic response; underserved population.
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