MCN Healthcare: Policy Management and Compliance Tools

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is now recommending that all U.S. baby boomers (persons born during 1945-1965) get a one-time test for the hepatitis C virus.  According to a new Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), published today, Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is an increasing cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States.  The CDC estimates that although persons born during 1945-1965 comprise an estimated 27% of the population, they account for approximately three fourths of all HCV infections in the United States, 73% of HCV-associated mortality, and are at greatest risk for hepatocellular carcinoma and other HCV-related liver disease.

With the advent of new therapies that can halt disease progression and provide a virologic cure in most persons, targeted testing and linkage to care for infected persons in this birth cohort is expected to reduce HCV-related morbidity and mortality. Therefore, the CDC is augmenting previous recommendations for HCV testing to recommend one-time testing without prior ascertainment of HCV risk for persons born during 1945-1965.  Persons identified as having HCV infection should receive a brief screening for alcohol use and intervention as clinically indicated, followed by referral to appropriate care for HCV infection and related conditions.

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