In particular, the situation of Hep C in Asia Pacific area is very interested. In Australia, the roll out of DAA is considered very successful. Nonetheless, Dr Gail Matthews informed us that there is still room for improvement. She also described some of the strategies that we can use from a clinician’s perspective.
I was very impressed with the panel discussion on the topic of access and elimination of Hep C. The discussion has made me realised the other non-clinical issues are also extremely important factors that can affect the outcome of the program. These factors include cost and policies.
My reflection: as a clinician, my clinical decisions rarely include the cost (I do that only when the patient needs to pay for the tests him/herself). Furthermore, sometimes when the situation is not ideal and I would think “it is the way it is, that’s nothing I can do”. I should change my practice in the following ways:
- I need to consider more about the practical sides of the clinical approach (e.g not to order unnecessary tests).
- Clinicians are usually well respected and politicians do listen to us. I should advocate more for less fortunate/ marginalised patients.
