Access to Hepatitis C Treatment in Medicaid
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.
Announced or Revised | Agency | Title | Component | Report Number(s) | Expected Issue Date (FY) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
November 2024 | Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services | Access to Hepatitis C Treatment in Medicaid | Office of Evaluation and Inspections | OEI-BL-24-00450 | 2026 |