Hepatitis C Testing at the Point of Care in Indigenous Communities

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Hepatitis C disproportionately affects American Indian and Alaska Native populations, with the highest acute incidence reported in 2023.
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Point-of-care HCV RNA testing improves diagnosis and treatment uptake, enabling same-day confirmation and initiation of care.
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The Cherokee Nation implemented a POC HCV RNA testing program in October 2024, becoming the first US tribal health system to do so.
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Participants in the Cherokee Nation's program received incentives for testing and treatment, promoting engagement and follow-up.
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The study evaluated the implementation of POC testing, focusing on acceptance, diagnostic validity, and treatment uptake among participants.

Jama Network Open

by Jorge Mera, Andrea Blair, Kendra Lewis, Savana Christy, Molly Feder, Ashley Comiford
April 15, 2026

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