Concurrent group treatment for hepatitis C: Implementation and outcomes in a methadone maintenance treatment program

Melissa R. Stein, Irene J. Soloway, Karen S. Jefferson, Robert J. Roose, Julia H. Arnsten, Alain H. Litwin

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

53 Scopus citations

Abstract

Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is highly prevalent among current and former drug users. However, the minority of patients enrolled in drug treatment programs have initiated HCV treatment. New models are needed to overcome barriers to care. In this retrospective study, we describe the implementation and outcomes of 42 patients treated in a concurrent group treatment (CGT) program. Patients participated in weekly provider-led group treatment sessions which included review of side effects; discussion of adherence and side effect management; administration of interferon injections; brief physical examination; and ended with brief meditation. Of the first 27 patients who initiated CGT, 42% achieved a sustained viral response. In addition, 87% (13/15) of genotype-1 infected patients treated with direct acting antiviral agent achieved an undetectable viral load at 24. weeks. The CGT model may be effective in overcoming barriers to treatment and improving adherence and outcomes among patients enrolled in drug treatment programs.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)424-432
Number of pages9
JournalJournal of Substance Abuse Treatment
Volume43
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 2012

Keywords

  • Chronic hepatitis C
  • Group treatment
  • HCV
  • IDU
  • Methadone maintenance

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Phychiatric Mental Health
  • Medicine (miscellaneous)
  • Clinical Psychology
  • Psychiatry and Mental health

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