Hepatitis B prevention and care for Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders at community health centers.

INTRODUCTION

A needs assessment was conducted of hepatitis B education, screening, vaccination, and care within community health centers (CHCs) serving Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders.

METHODS

Written surveys were administered to health education directors from 13 CHCs and 75 medical providers from 14 CHCs in the U.S. and affiliated Pacific Islands.

RESULTS

Although hepatitis B is within the mission of CHCs and clients are screened regardless of insurance status, little financial or staffing resources are dedicated to hepatitis B services. Lack of funding is considered the greatest barrier. Better coordination between HBV prevention and primary and specialty medical services is needed.

DISCUSSION

HBV cross-training for providers and allied staff, particularly around identification and screening of high risk groups and case management, would greatly enhance services along with additional funding. Findings support national hepatitis B strategy recommendations made by the Institute of Medicine and Office of Minority Health.