Directly observed hepatitis C treatment with opioid substitution therapy in community pharmacies: A qualitative study.

摘要: Abstract Background The hepatitis C virus (HCV) will only be eliminated through successful engagement with people who inject drugs (PWID), however some of this population experience socioeconomic and individual issues that can lead to poor HCV treatment adherence. A key sub-group (PWID) are those receive opioid substitution therapy (OST). In Australia, OST is most often delivered under direct supervision by a community pharmacist every day or multiple times week. This regular interaction could an ideal opportunity enhance direct-acting antiviral (DAA) adherence directly observed (DOT) the pharmacist. Aim aim study was explore perspectives patients lived understand whether not dispensing DAAs in same way as, simultaneously would benefit treatment. Methods Data collection occurred from June August 2017. Semi-structured interviews were conducted sample PWID living on programs (n = 12) Melbourne, Australia. Interviews voice recorded transcribed verbatim. Interpretive phenomenology guided analysis data. Results Themes reported participants provide insight into suitability DOT include: Adherence non-adherence DAA treatment; Mixed views towards DAAs; Experiences perceptions providers; Perceived stigma pharmacy. Conclusions Community pharmacies offering may effective place for treatment, but likely face significant challenges We suggest positive pharmacist-patient relationship, high adherence, commitment reducing pharmacy necessary intervention effective. Further research needed evaluate expanded-role improving eliminating HCV.