Preventive Health Program/ Hepatitis C Testing

A Good Idea

Description

Many people are unknowingly infected with Hepatitis C and many others not immunized against Hepatitis A or B. The public is generally unknowledgeable about Hepatitis A, B or C. The practice of integrating Hepatitis C testing and immunization for Hepatitis A and B into our clinic setting addresses past and present risk factors in the client’s lifestyle for Hepatitis infection.

Goal / Mission

The intent of the practice is to decrease mortality and morbidity relative to Hepatitis A, B or C infection rate in Western New York.

Results / Accomplishments

Under the leadership of the clinic coordinator, Cecelia Kohlmeier, RN, MS and the support of the Health Department, the integrated Hepatitis C services have brought to light many previously undiagnosed cases of Hepatitis C. Those clients found to be infected have since been referred and are, hopefully under the care of a hepatologist and will have, pending eligibility, been immunized for Hepatitis A and B.

About this Promising Practice

Organization(s)
Erie County Department of Health
Primary Contact
Cecelia Kohlmeier
(716) 858-7687
Kohlmeic@erie.gov
http://www.erie.gov/health/
Topics
Health / Immunizations & Infectious Diseases
Health / Health Care Access & Quality
Organization(s)
Erie County Department of Health
Source
National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO)
Date of publication
2005
Date of implementation
1998
Location
Erie County, NY
For more details