Finding out about hep C will help you plan for the future. Our Hep C Action Newsletter Program can help guide you through testing and treatment.
Why You Should Get Tested
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have told your doctor that: “anyone who wishes to know or is concerned regarding their HCV infection status should be provided the opportunity for counseling, testing, and appropriate follow-up.”
What does that mean?
- If you want the test, you should be able to get it just by asking—you don’t need to give a reason.
- If you want information before testing, you should be able to get it.
- After your test results are in, they should be explained to you along with a plan for your future health.
If your primary care doctor ordered your hep C test, ask about referral to a GI specialist or hepatologist (liver expert). Your doctor can explain why these physicians are the right specialists for your condition.
View the risk assessment checklist, to get more information about who health experts believe should get tested, but remember that 30% of people who have chronic hep C don’t know how they got it.
Want another reason? Here’s a big one:
Patients treated earlier for hep C may respond to treatment better.
There’s also the risk to those close to you if you have hep C and don’t know it. There are many ways to spread hep C, including through personal care items (such as a razor or toothbrush) or a household accident that brings anyone into contact with your blood.
So you owe it to yourself and your loved ones to get tested and find out about all of your treatment options.
Read on for more information about testing:
Who Tests for and Treats Hep C?
