Hepatitis C Screening Protocol in a Rural Primary Care Setting

Author

Katie C. Wollerman, Southern Illinois University EdwardsvilleFollow
Mackenzie M. Bowers, Southern Illinois University EdwardsvilleFollow

Date of Award

Spring 5-2020

Document Type

DNP Project

Project Team Faculty Member

Dr. Valerie Griffin

Project Team Faculty Member

Dr. Albertina Perez

Keywords

hepatits c protocol, hepatits c screening, hepatitis c prevention

Abstract

Current evidence indicates a need for Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) screening, as the virus can lead to complications if not detected early. Screening is determined by population-based risks, behavioral-based risks, and healthcare-based risks. After criteria are met, patients can be screened by a venous laboratory test. A gap existed in a rural primary healthcare clinic, as providers were not following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or U.S. Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommendations to screen patients. An HCV screening protocol was developed and implemented in this healthcare facility. The providers opted to only implement screening for population-based risk patients; therefore, the providers focused on screening those born between 1945-1965. During initial implementation, a chart review was conducted. Of the 67 patients who met criteria, 27 patients were offered HCV screening. A major limitation to screening appropriate patients included lack of pre-visit planning within the healthcare facility. Even with this limitation, we encourage other providers to implement HCV screening protocols in their practice as screening can lead to earlier diagnosis of HCV and improved patient outcomes.

Recommended Citation

Wollerman, Katie C. and Bowers, Mackenzie M., "Hepatitis C Screening Protocol in a Rural Primary Care Setting" (2020). Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects. 108.
https://spark.siue.edu/dnpprojects/108

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