What do GPS in QLD really think about community based HCV prescribing

There has been interest in Australia around community prescribing of antiviral therapy for hepatitis C (HCV). In Queensland there are approximately 2500 diagnoses of HCV infection each year (2877 in 2006) and mechanisms to address broader access to treatment, including shared care models, have been considered.The aim of the current study was to survey General Practitioners in Queensland about their interest in prescribing HCV antiviral therapy. In late 2007 a survey was sent to General Practitioners residing in Queensland (approx 5000) through the Medical Board of Queensland. In addition, information on case-load, location, employment of a Practice Nurse; links to liver clinics; and current HIV prescribing was gathered.The data and analysis of the survey results will be presented as well as future directions for treatment in Queensland. This will include analysis by caseload (59.5% had a caseload of 5 or below whereas 20% had a caseload of more than 20); presence of a Practice Nurse; and geographic location.© 2008 Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Foundation and Blackwell Publishing Asia Pty Ltd