[Hepatitis C in Germany: an analysis of statutory sickness funds claims data].

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to investigate the number of persons who obtain medical attention for Hepatitis C Virus (HCV). In addition, we wanted to get an overview of the supply situation (frequency and length of therapy or lab controls) for patients with HCV infection.

METHODOLOGY

Data obtained from statutory insurance companies were analyzed.

RESULTS

The prevalence of HCV diagnosis was 0.19 % within 3 years. Following a positive HCV-test in 19 % of patients the diagnosis of acute HCV was documented. In 2008, 9.3 % of patients were treated with pegylated Interferon alpha with or without Ribavirin (11.9 % for chronic and 3.6 % for acute HCV). A general practitioner initiated in about 5.1 % and a specialist in 21.7 % of cases a therapy within a year. 37.0 % of patients treated by a general practitioner and 57.0 % of patients treated by specialists received prescriptions in the third quarter after initiating the therapy. Not all patients had a documented test for viral load prior to therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

50 % of HCV-patients visited a physician in a 3 year time period while an average of 9 % received a therapy within a year. For the coding of acute HCV diagnosis, duration of therapy and the necessary viral load test prior therapy, the analyses showed deviations from the guideline and differences between general practitioners and specialists. For future therapies, patients with HCV-infection should be treated in specialized centers so that these therapies may develop their efficiency in the health system.