About HCV Current Initiative
Hepatitis C (HCV) Current is a national initiative among the ATTC Regional Centers to increase HCV knowledge among medical and behavioral health professionals, especially staff at federally qualified health centers.
To disseminate the latest on the rapidly evolving field of HCV, this initiative provides comprehensive resources for health professionals, including:
- online and in-person curriculum and training
- downloadable provider tools
- region-specific resources
HCV Current is funded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
Why Hepatitis C?
Approximately 2.5 to 4 million people are infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) in the United States (SAMHSA, 2014). Baby boomers (those born between 1945-1965) and persons with mental health and substance use disorders face an increased risk for infection. Among people who have used or currently use intravenous drugs, one in three young adults and three in four older adults are HCV-infected (CDC, 2014). Dramatic medical advances in the past year have revolutionized the course of HCV treatment, increasing the role of primary care and behavioral health settings in addressing this public health concern.
Training
HCV Current offers multiple training options, including:
-
HCV Snapshot: An Introduction to Hepatitis C for Health Care Professionals
- Free, 90-minute online course providing an overview of HCV. The four self-paced modules cover: populations at risk, overview of HCV, screening processes, and treatment options. Continuing education is available.
- Register for the course at: http://www.healtheknowledge.org
-
Hepatitis C: Capacity Building for Behavioral and Health Care Professionals
- Six-hour training curriculum that builds on the basics of the HCV Snapshot course. The five modules cover opportunities for promoting hepatitis c screening and testing, linking patients to treatment, available treatment options, and patient considerations for treatment. Curriculum can be downloaded free of cost. In addition, in-person trainings will take place nationally. See the Training & Events calendar on the HCV Current website for a schedule of trainings near you.
Products
The HCV RNA Provider Card is a small pocket card to help medical and behavioral health professionals discuss HCV RNA test results with patients. The front provides a visual of the testing algorithm and the back provides step-by-step instructions for discussing results with patients. The product can be downloaded free of cost on the HCV Current website. Hard copies will also be distributed at live training events.
Regional Resources
To address the local conditions and needs of communities, each ATTC Regional Center compiled region-specific HCV resources and contact information. Visit the HCV Current website to find resources in your region.
HCV Trainer
Haner Hernandez PhD, CPS, CADCII, LADCI
New England ATTC
Consultant
Contact Information
Address:
PO Box 5501
Springfield, Massachusetts 01101
Phone: (413) 627-1601
Email: hanerhernandez@aol.com