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Hep C treatments

Revolutionary treatments for hepatitis C are now available for all adolescents and adults in Australia who hold Medicare cards. They are very different to previous treatments as they:

  • Cure around 95% of people who take them.
  • Are effective for people who have liver cirrhosis.
  • Have minimal side-effects.
  • Are taken for just 8 – 12 weeks (in most cases).
  • Involve daily tablets (no injections).

How can I access hep C treatment?

To access treatment for hepatitis C, visit a GP. In some instances, including where people have cirrhosis, they may refer you to a liver clinic at a hospital or specialist clinic.

GPs who manage and treat patients with hepatitis C may need to do so in consultation with a specialist before a prescription can be issued.

This consultation can be via fax, email, phone or video.

Recent changes to the prescribing guidelines allow experienced GPs to issue a script without consultation, and now also allow Nurse Practitioners to prescribe the new medicines.

It is likely that you will need a couple of appointments with your clinician before a script is written so they can conduct all relevant tests.

Some GPs are still unfamiliar with the new treatments, so it is advisable to be persistent and patient in seeking support.

If you are taking any other medicines or alternative therapies, always inform your doctor to prevent possible interactions or unwanted side effects.

Jane’s treatment journey

Information line
For help and further information, please call the LiverLine.
LiverWELL acknowledges the support of the Victorian Government.
We welcome people from all cultures, nationalities and religions. Being inclusive and providing equitable services is our commitment.

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We acknowledge the traditional owners of the lands where we work - the lands of the Woi-Wurrung Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nations. We express our gratitude to them for their continued care and curation of these lands and waters. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

LiverWELL observes and honours the Kulin Nation's intrinsic connection to land, sky and water, and the creator Bunjil. LiverWELL is committed to being led and informed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders on bridging health outcomes for communities and improving liver health.