HCV RNA testing in community settings and 1 more...
Percent of Confirmatory RNA Tests
Current Value
63%
Definition
Previously, this measure was defined as: Percent of Reactive HCV Antibody Tests with Confirmatory RNA Tests. With the implementation of Cepheid Xpert RNA testing at one community-based testing site, this measure was updated to capture two pathways to confirmatory RNA testing: (1) direct RNA testing without a prior antibody test, and (2) confirmatory RNA testing following a reactive antibody test.
Why Is This Important?
When a person receives a "reactive" (aka positive) antibody result at one of End Hep C SF's community testing programs, they are then referred for a confirmatory RNA test which will show whether they have an active HCV infection that requires treatment. These tests can often be performed at the same site. Ideally, these curves would be the same because that would mean we are following up on every reactive antibody test with a confirmatory RNA test. Our goal is an upward trend in both lines, and to have these two lines as close as possible.
Story Behind the Curve
Quality Improvement Plan
Technical Notes
Previously, this measure was defined as: Percent of Reactive HCV Antibody Tests with Confirmatory RNA Tests. With the implementation of Cepheid Xpert RNA testing at one community-based testing site, this measure was updated in July 2026 to capture two pathways to confirmatory RNA testing: (1) direct RNA testing without a prior antibody test, and (2) confirmatory RNA testing following a reactive antibody test. This current measure is reflected in data starting in Q3 of 2025.
Description of data: The current measure's denominator consists of client records 1) who received a reactive HCV antibody test and 2) those who did not receive an antibody test but received a lab-based or rapid RNA test. The numerator is the total number of RNA tests conducted. This measure includes diagnostic/screening RNA tests and does not include RNA tests run for SVR4 or SVR12. Some EHCSF sites do not have co-located RNA testing, including SF CHC and LWC. Additionally, more EHCSF sites have added RNA testing each year, so an increase in the number of RNA tests is, in part, reflecting the addition of new sites.
*Data is considered preliminary until 3 months after the end of the quarter's closing.
Time:
- Data time frame: 2019 - 2025
- Data as of April 2026
Inclusion/Exclusion Criteria: 7 SFDPH-funded CBOs.
Description of Data Source: CBOs complete an SFDPH HCV data testing form for every client that receives testing services. CBOs can complete the form via paper or submit electronically.
Reference for QI Plan:
Relevant PTL Strategic Priorities:
- SP6 - increase reflex RNA testing
- SP7 - improve awareness of HCV among the public
- SP8 - reduce HCV-related stigma via social marketing campaign
- SP11 - engage and empower community members
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