Biomedical innovation alone is not sufficient to increase hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment engagement among patients most marginalized, with sustainable resourcing of community services crucial in order to effect changes, a recent study found. This intervention from the HepCATT study comprised multiple components, including a nurse facilitator, peer support, and education initiatives. The 96 participants comprised drug service and intervention providers and clients with injecting history. Researchers found:

• Client engagement with a HCV treatment service rose from 16 at baseline in 2014 to 147 in 2016.
• Baseline testing and treatment barriers included limited HCV knowledge, fear of diagnosis and treatment, precarious living circumstances, and service-specific obstacles.
• Treatment engagement was aided by intervention timeliness, improved communication structures, personalized care, streamlined testing and treatment pathways, and peer support.
• The nurse practitioner was key to intervention success.