LJWG for Substance Misuse and Hep C conference

It was good to see so many fimilar faces at the 2nd LJWG conference yesterday. It was a lively and stimulating meeting, with the audience contributing ideas as to how hepatitis C can be moved up the public health agenda.
The LWJG have published a consensus statement on the website - http://www.ljwg.org.uk - which raises a challenge to all those who work with substance users. There recommendations for drug services are:
• Every patient attending a drug service in London should be tested for blood borne viruses (BBVs) and, if negative, repeat tested every 6 months. A baseline target of 90% should be adopted in all drug services.
• Every patient attending a drug service in London should be vaccinated against hepatitis A and B. A baseline target of 90% uptake should be adopted in all drug services.
• Every hepatitis C RNA-positive patient should be referred to a specialist treatment service for assessment, and provided with support to attend if required.
• Every drug worker should have a clear basic knowledge of hepatitis C, (through completing the RCGP Certificate in the Detection, Diagnosis and Management of Hepatitis B and C in Primary Care, or an equivalent qualification).
• Consistent harm reduction advice and education should be provided through all services working with drug users, including all needle exchange services.
• Every local drug service centre should have a nominated person responsible for liaising with hepatitis treatment centres, prisons and primary care.
How does your service do?