Comparing two methods for starting hepatitis C treatment
Dried Blood Spot Testing in Peer-assisted Telemedicine for Hepatitis C Treatment
This study is testing a new way to start hepatitis C treatment using a simple blood test instead of traditional blood draws to see if it helps people who use drugs in rural Oregon get treated faster.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 141 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Oregon Health and Science University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Portland, Oregon) |
| Trial ID | NCT06409169 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study compares the effectiveness of a new approach called Dried Blood Spot Test and Treat (DBS TaT) against the usual care method, which requires blood draws, for initiating hepatitis C treatment. The DBS TaT method uses a simple blood test to diagnose hepatitis C and identifies low-risk patients for liver fibrosis, allowing them to start treatment sooner. The study is particularly focused on people who use drugs in rural Oregon, where access to traditional testing methods can be challenging. By evaluating these two methods, the study aims to improve treatment initiation rates for hepatitis C.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals with an active hepatitis C infection who are willing to engage with the PATHS program for clinical care.
Not a fit: Patients who are currently pregnant will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly increase the number of patients starting treatment for hepatitis C, particularly in underserved populations.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using telemedicine and simplified testing methods for hepatitis C treatment initiation, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Active hepatitis C infection * Willing to engaged with the PATHS program for clinical care Exclusion Criteria: • Currently pregnant
Where this trial is running
Portland, Oregon
- Oregon Health & Science University — Portland, Oregon, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Hunter Spencer, DO — Oregon Health and Science University
- Study coordinator: Hunter Spencer, DO
- Email: spencerh@ohsu.edu
- Phone: 503-681-4233
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.