The broadcast briefly recaps on the incidence, prevalence and transmission of hepatitis C, followed by a description of the tests for diagnosing hepatitis C.

The broadcast also examines the impact of new hepatitis C testing policy on health care workers and addresses issues such as informed consent, use of routine testing, and monitoring of people with hepatitis C.

The program presents two case studies: one with an Indigenous focus and the other focusing on issues around injecting drug use. Interviews give an insight into the experiences of three people living with hepatitis C.

Treatment options will be discussed, including monotherapy, combination therapy (including guidelines for access) and complementary therapy. Comments made in an earlier program about the prospects for a cure for hepatitis C will also be discussed.

There is a strong consumer focus in the program, particularly for aspects of testing procedures. Issues such as confidentiality, discrimination, life-style management are discussed.

A recurring theme in the program is the demonstration by health professionals of a non-judgemental attitude towards those patients who are or have been injecting drug users.

The broadcast also provides information about resources available to health care workers to assist in treating and caring for people with hepatitis C.

— Chair: Dr Norman Swan, Presenter of the Health Report on ABC Radio National.
— Dr Mark Wenitong, General Practitioner, Cairns QLD.
— Dr Bob Batey, Gastroenterologist.
— Dr Jane Barker, General Practitioner, Bangalow NSW.
— Mr Jeff Ward, Consumer representative, Hepatitis C Council.

90 minutes.

This program was first broadcast on Tuesday 29 May 2001.

You can purchase a copy of this program on DVD or VHS video.

Australasian Society for HIV Medicine

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- 701 Chlamydia: Combating the Epidemic
- 305 Talking Together - Contemporary Issues in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health: HIV, Hepatitis and Sexual Health