Residential substance user treatment programs as venues for HCV pharmacological treatment: Client and staff perspectives

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is highly prevalent among drug users. While there are antiviral medications available to combat the virus, the medication regimen is quite arduous, presenting special issues for drug users. We examined the challenges and benefits of using residential substance user treatment programs as venues for clients to undergo HCV medication regimens. Analyses of qualitative data collected from clients and staff in 2003 at four residential substance user treatment programs in the U.S. indicate that challenges primarily include issues involving the medications' side effects, and both financial and communication concerns. Benefits especially involve clients' feelings that they are being proactive in addressing health issues in an environment that provides much-needed support. Findings illuminate the complex issues involved for both clients and the programs, and some steps that programs can take to better support HCV-infected clients regarding HCV medication concerns.