In 2015/16, implementation began on a revised approach to the delivery of hepatitis C services across New Zealand.  This involved the development of more integrated regional hepatitis C services where the focus was on a co-ordinated primary and secondary health care model with regional clinical leaders.

The purpose of this guidance developed by the Hepatitis C Implementation Advisory Group is to support the ongoing implementation of regional hepatitis C services, by outlining the elements of the services that should be nationally consistent. The guidance covers the high level clinical pathway, minimum requirements, quality assurance frameworks, minimum standards and data collection required across all DHBs.

The guidance was updated in January 2019 in response to PHARMAC's decision to fund the new hepatitis C treatment (Maviret) from 1 February 2019. This is a potential cure for people with chronic hepatitis C infection regardless of the type or genotype.

Refer to the PHARMAC website for information to support the roll out of the new hepatitis C funded treatments. This includes product information, medical information for prescribers and pharmacists, and more details about patient eligibility for funded treatments:

• PHARMAC: Hepatitis C treatments

Refer to the Ministry website for information about the work in progress to improve hepatitis treatment services in New Zealand:

• Ministry of Health: Hepatitis C