Have Hepatitis C And Not Sure Where To Go?

Finding Orlando Hep C treatment and testing when you do not have insurance coverage is easier than you might think – Harmony Healthcare Orlando offers these services at no cost.

Our patients choose us because we provide them with the healthcare they need in a welcoming and inclusive environment.

There are a few reasons that you might be looking for Orlando Hep C treatment without insurance coverage. Many of our patients are uninsured, while others have insurance plans with high copays, high deductibles, and other co-insurance charges that create barriers to care. At Harmony Healthcare Orlando, we provide treatment to patients regardless of their insurance status or ability to pay. In this blog, we will discuss some facts about hepatitis C treatment and what you can expect.

What Is Hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C is an infection of the liver that is caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV), and is transmitted through contact with the blood of someone who is positive for the virus. It causes the liver to become inflamed or damaged, which affects its function. 

A hepatitis C infection can be either acute or chronic, and every chronic hepatitis C infection begins as an acute infection. Many people with an acute infection do not have symptoms, and do not feel or look sick. 

Someone with a chronic hepatitis C infection may not have any symptoms or might have very general symptoms – like depression or chronic fatigue. If left untreated, a chronic infection can lead to complications, such as:

• Liver disease
• Liver cancer
• Liver failure

Seeking the care of a medical professional for treatment can stop these problems from getting worse, improve them, or even prevent them altogether. 

Who Should Be Tested For Hepatitis C?

If you have hepatitis C, it could be years before any signs or symptoms appear. Because of this, if you think you may have come in contact with someone who is positive for hepatitis C and believe you are at risk, it is important to get tested.

What To Expect From Hepatitis C Testing

Recent CDC estimates show that there are 2.4 million people living with hepatitis C in the United States. If you test positive, you are far from alone. In fact, the CDC recommends that everyone be tested for hepatitis C at least once in their lifetime. 

The initial test used to diagnose hepatitis C is an HCV test, sometimes referred to as an anti-HCV test. This test detects antibodies in your bloodstream, so a sample will be collected by drawing your blood. If this test comes back positive, an HCV RNA test will be given, which can tell your doctor if you have an active infection.  

What Can I Expect From Hepatitis C Treatment?

Hepatitis C is curable, and the oral therapy needed to treat it is over 90% effective with very few side effects. Your Orlando Hep C treatment is as simple as taking your prescribed pills for 8 to 12 weeks from the comfort of your home.

How Much Does Hepatitis C Treatment Cost?

At Harmony Healthcare Orlando, we provide testing and treatment at no cost for our patients. This is important to us because hepatitis C is treated through oral therapy, and the average 12-week course can range in price from $39,000 to $94,000, depending on the type of medication and the manufacturer. A recent study found that over 52% of private insurance companies deny coverage for these medications for patients.

More FAQ: Orlando Hep C Treatment & Testing

Can I still receive treatment if I have other health conditions?
Yes. Our medical providers evaluate your overall health to ensure your hepatitis C treatment is safe and effective alongside any other conditions or medications.

How quickly will I see results from treatment?
Most patients achieve a sustained virologic response (SVR), which is considered a cure, within 12 weeks of completing therapy. Your provider will monitor your progress with follow-up blood tests.

Is hepatitis C contagious during treatment?
Hepatitis C can still be transmitted until the virus is undetectable. Your provider can give guidance on precautions to prevent spreading the virus to others while on treatment.

Can I drink alcohol or use other substances during treatment?
It’s best to discuss your lifestyle habits with your provider. Alcohol and certain medications can affect liver function, so your treatment plan may include recommendations to protect your liver.

Are follow-up appointments necessary after treatment?
Yes. Even after completing therapy, follow-up testing ensures the virus has been cleared and your liver health is monitored.

Can I get reinfected with hepatitis C after treatment?
Yes. Successful treatment does not prevent future infection, so ongoing prevention measures and regular testing are important for at-risk individuals.

Harmony Healthcare Orlando Is Here For You

Statistics like this show us how important it is to provide accessible health care for our patients that does not depend on their insurance status or any other factors. To discuss your Orlando Hep C treatment options, contact us today. We provide a safe, private, and personalized space to receive the treatment and testing you need.