Clinical effectiveness of pharmacist-led versus conventionally delivered antiviral treatment for hepatitis C virus in patients receiving opioid substitution therapy: a pragmatic, cluster-randomised trial
Study (n=2,718) found more patients had sustained virological response 12 wks after completion of treatment in pharmacist group (55 pharmacies; 7%) vs. conventional group (pts receiving care at treatment centre; 3%, odds ratio 2.375, 95% CI 1.555–3.628, p<0.0001).
Source:
Lancet Gastroenterology and Hepatology
SPS commentary:
A related commentary suggests using pharmacists to deliver a hepatitis C virus care (HCV) pathway made testing and treatment more accessible for patients, improved engagement, and maintained high treatment success rates. Authors state the use of this pathway could be a key part of an integrated and effective approach to HCV elimination at a community level.