Evaluation of an integrated care service facility for people living with hepatitis C in New Zealand

INTRODUCTION: People living with hepatitis C are a highly marginalised population who may not readily access health care. Existing models of hepatitis C care may not meet the needs of these patients. This research evaluates the experiences of patients attending an innovative hepatitis C clinic that offers integrated care and service delivery. METHOD: Surveys were completed by 120 clients and comprised of questions relating to changes in lifestyle habits since attending the clinic, hepatitis C knowledge, hepatitis C treatment and experiences with health care staff at the clinic. RESULTS: The majority of respondents indicated that attendance at the clinic has provided them with the information to better manage their hepatitis C and had given them confidence to make lifestyle changes. Participants demonstrated a very high knowledge of hepatitis C and reported experiencing a less discriminatory environment at the clinic compared to other health care settings. Respondents who had been attending the clinic for more than 6 months were significantly more likely to indicate a desire to commence hepatitis C treatment over the next 5 years. DISCUSSION: The findings point to the importance of integrated care in the community setting in providing clients with a positive experience of health care, which appears to increase their skills and desire to better manage their hepatitis C.