HCV Current Initiative

HCV Current is a national initiative among the ATTC Regional Centers to increase hepatitis C (HCV) knowledge among medical and behavioral health professionals.


To disseminate the latest on the rapidly evolving field of HCV, this initiative provides comprehensive resources for health professionals, including:

  • online and in-person curriculum and training
  • downloadable provider tools
  • region-specific resources

Click here to download an overview of the HCV Current initiative.

HCV Current is funded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

Why hepatitis C?

Approximately 2.5 to 4 million people are infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) in the United States (SAMHSA, 2014). Approximately 75% were born between 1945 and 1965 and are unaware of their infection. The CDC and U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommended in 2013 that baby boomers should be offered a one-time screening for HCV. Research shows that since then, there was a very small increase in testing of 12.3 to 13.8% consequently keeping the birth cohort at highest risk for liver cancer and HCV related disease and cirrhotic liver complications.

Approximately 70 percent of new HCV infections are believed to occur among people who inject drugs. This increase has been driven by the opioid epidemic that affects many communities across the country. Unsafe injection drug use has contributed to a 250 percent increase in HCV infections between 2010 and 2014. (National Viral Hepatitis Plan 2017-2020)

Free Training

HCV Current offers multiple training options, including:

Products

  • The HCV RNA Provider Card is a small pocket card to help medical and behavioral health professionals discuss HCV RNA test results with patients. The front provides a visual of the testing algorithm and the back provides step-by-step instructions for discussing results with patients. The product can be downloaded for free on the Products & Resources page. Hard copies will also be distributed at live training events.
  • Motivational Interviewing to Address Hepatitis C-Vignettes Learn through example by watching any or all of six vignettes which illustrate how, through MI, practitioners can help their patients develop intrinsic motivation to be tested for HCV and to feel positive about making a responsible health decision. Each unique scenario features a trained motivational interviewer speaking with a patient at risk for hepatitis C. The videos portray a diverse group of backgrounds and life experiences.

Regional Resources

To address the local conditions and needs of communities, your ATTC Regional Center has compiled region-specific HCV resources and contact information. Visit the Regional Resources page to find resources in your region