EndHepCMA

EndHepCMA EndHepCMA

The EndHepCMA Coalition is a team of providers, consumers, and advocates working to achieve the elimination of Hepatitis C in Massachusetts. We educate policymakers and the public about this often-overlooked disease and advocate for evidence-based policy changes.

Hepatitis C is the number one blood-borne illness in the United States, responsible for more deaths than the next 60 reported infectious diseases combined. It is also completely preventable and treatable!

You can learn more about Hepatitis C by visiting the CDC or DPH pages

Hepatitis C is preventable and treatable!

Have you been denied Hep C Treatment due to substance use history? Contact us for a list of providers that will work with you.

For more information or if you would like to get involved,  please contact Richard Baker, Program Director of the Mobile Prevention Team and EndHepCMA Coalition Coordinator, at rbaker@vpi.org or 617-927-0836 x188

What is Hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C is a viral infection of the liver that is transmitted through blood-to-blood contact with someone living with the virus. Left untreated, this virus often leads to chronic infection and severe liver disease including cirrhosis and cancer.

Who is at risk of Hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C is a blood borne virus that is easily transmitted through blood-to-blood contact with someone living with the virus. People who share drug paraphernalia (this includes needles, works, and pipes) are at the highest risk for contracting Hepatitis C. But there are many other risk factors not related to one’s behaviors that may have put someone at risk. Hepatitis C often presents with no symptoms at all—the only way to know your status is to get tested. Ask your primary care provider about testing, or find a location nearest to you at https://gettested.cdc.gov/.

How can I receive treatment?

Treatment for Hepatitis C consists of a daily pill regimen for 6-12 weeks with minimal side effects and has a near 95% success rate. Your primary care provider can treat you for your Hepatitis C. All major insurers (including MassHealth) will pay for your Hepatitis C treatment without restriction.

If you are denied access to treatment due to an insurer, please reach out to the Coalition for support.

If you are a person who uses drugs and is seeking a provider to treat your Hepatitis C, please see the Provider List at the top of the page identifying providers open and willing to treat individuals actively using or in recovery from substance use.

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