HCV Screening and Counseling Practices by Obstetrician-Gynecologists
Author Information
Author(s): Kathy Boaz, Anthony E. Fiore, Stephanie J. Schrag, Bernard Gonik, Jay Schulkin
Primary Institution: National Center for Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Hypothesis
What are the screening and counseling practices for hepatitis C virus infection among obstetrician-gynecologists?
Conclusion
Most obstetrician-gynecologists collect information to assess HCV infection risk, but their screening and counseling practices are not always consistent with current recommendations.
Supporting Evidence
- 74% of CARN members and 44% of non-CARN members responded to the survey.
- More than 80% of providers routinely collected drug use and blood transfusion histories.
- 49% of respondents always screened for HCV infection in patients with a history of injection drug use.
- 70% recommended condom use for HCV-positive patients with a steady partner.
- 64% advised HCV-positive patients to avoid alcohol consumption.
Takeaway
Doctors who take care of women often check for hepatitis C risk, but they don't always follow the best advice on how to test and help patients with the virus.
Methodology
A survey was conducted among ACOG Fellows to assess their HCV screening and counseling practices.
Potential Biases
Responses may not reflect actual practices as they were self-reported and not verified.
Limitations
The study could not compare demographics of respondents and nonrespondents, and practices reported were not confirmed by medical records.
Participant Demographics
The median age of respondents was 48 years, with a majority being male obstetrician-gynecologists practicing in urban or suburban settings.
Statistical Information
P-Value
< 0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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