Screening for Hepatitis C and B in Hospital Patients
Screening for Hepatitis C and Hepatitis B in Inpatients: A Toronto Viral Hepatitis Care Network (VIRCAN) Collaboration
PHASE4 · University Health Network, Toronto · NCT04620226
This study tests whether quick screening for Hepatitis C and B can help hospitalized adults in Toronto get diagnosed and connected to care faster than traditional blood tests.
Quick facts
| Phase | PHASE4 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 2920 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University Health Network, Toronto (other) |
| Locations | 2 sites (Toronto, Ontario and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT04620226 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the effectiveness of rapid screening methods for Hepatitis C and B in hospitalized patients compared to traditional venipuncture methods. By providing same-day results, the program aims to improve diagnosis rates and facilitate immediate engagement with healthcare providers. The focus is on adults admitted to specific hospital units in Toronto, with an emphasis on overcoming barriers to care that are unique to the Canadian healthcare context. The study seeks to enhance the linkage to care for patients diagnosed with these viral infections.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older who are admitted to the General Internal Medicine Inpatient Units at Toronto General Hospital or Toronto Western Hospital.
Not a fit: Patients with confirmed, active COVID-19 infections or those whose end of life is expected to be less than 6 months may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly increase the diagnosis and treatment rates for Hepatitis C and B among hospitalized patients.
How similar studies have performed: While some American studies have explored inpatient screening for Hepatitis C, this study's focus on rapid testing and the Canadian healthcare context presents a novel approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Adults aged 18 years or older at time of consent * Patients admitted to GIMIUs at TGH or TWH Exclusion Criteria: * Patients whose end of life is expected to be less than 6 months * Patients who are unable or decline to provide informed consent * Patients with confirmed, active COVID-19 infections * Patients with immediate life-threatening conditions where screening for chronic HCV and HBV infection may delay urgent care
Where this trial is running
Toronto, Ontario and 1 other locations
- Toronto General Hospital — Toronto, Ontario, Canada (RECRUITING)
- Toronto Western Hospital — Toronto, Ontario, Canada (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Bethany Barber, RN
- Email: Bethany.Barber@uhn.ca
- Phone: 4163404800
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.
Conditions: Hepatitis C, Hepatitis B, Screening, Inpatient, Hospital