Any person who has ever had HCV will produce a "reactive" result in an antibody test, including people with active HCV infections, people who cleared it on their own without treatment, and those who have been cured through treatment. If a client has a reactive HCV Antibody test they are then referred to confirmatory HCV RNA testing that will show whether they have an active infection that requires treatment or a former infection that doesn't require treatment. Once people get treated they are unable to spread the virus which helps us to turn the curve on the number of new HCV infections (incidence) as well the total number of HCV cases in San Francisco (prevalence). Increasing the number of antibody tests is one of End Hep C SF's primary goals because it means that we are testing more people who are at risk for HCV and linking more people to RNA testing and HCV treatment.

By clicking on the 'comparison' button above the graph, you can also see the total RNA tests performed within our priority populations. The desired result is an upward trend in all of the above curves. 

In early 2017 and 2018, access to antibody testing increased rapidly in SF as more and more community-based organizations join End Hep C SF. 

The COVID-19 pandemic was a major barrier that limited HCV testing and treatment in both 2020 and 2021. 

Given the internal and external factors, what could work to help turn this curve (including free solutions)?

(Example)

Strategy: Increase mobile testing

• Best practices toolkit
• TA and funding to help programs purchase vehicles
• MMU workgroup monthly meetings

Description of data: Quarterly HCV antibody tests that were given among EHCSF CBOs.

*Data is considered preliminary until 3 months after the end of the quarter's closing.

Time:

• Data time frame: 2018-2023
• Updated: February 18, 2024
• Q4 2023 data is missing for 1 regularly reporting CBO

Description of Data Source: End Hep C SF

Reference for QI Plan: 

Relevant PTL Strategic Priorties:

• SP1 - increase mobile testing
• SP2 - increase venue-based testing
• SP4 - support rapid HCV start initiatives for PWID
• SP7 - improve awareness of HCV among the public
• SP8 - reduce HCV-related stigma via social marketing campaign
• SP9 - improve community leadership
• SP11 - engage and empower community members