Access to Hepatitis C Treatment in Medicaid

OBJECTIVE

Hepatitis C is a liver disease caused by the highly infectious hepatitis C virus. If untreated, hepatitis C can result in serious liver disease. In the past decade, direct-acting antiviral drugs that can cure hepatitis C within 12 weeks have revolutionized treatment. Despite their improved tolerability over previous treatments and recommended use by prominent medical associations, these hepatitis C drugs are underutilized, and the virus continues to spread. In recent years, Federal and State policymakers have attempted to improve access to hepatitis C treatment while simultaneously addressing its high cost. In Medicaid—which serves a high proportion of people with hepatitis C—some States have arranged alternative payment structures for hepatitis C drugs and removed related coverage restrictions. This study will examine the extent to which Medicaid enrollees diagnosed with chronic hepatitis C receive drug treatment in Medicaid and identify potential disparities in treatment rates.

TIMELINE

• November 15, 2024
  Announced
• Today
  Office of Evaluation and Inspections In-Progress
• Est FY2026
  Estimated Fiscal Year for Project Completion

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