**Ministry of Public Health Aims to Eradicate Hepatitis B and C by 2030: New Initiatives Unveiled**
**Championing Nationwide Screening to Benefit 30-40 Million Citizens**
In an unprecedented move, the Ministry of Public Health has set an ambitious target to eliminate hepatitis B and C by the year 2030. This progressive endeavor aims to provide widespread benefits, guaranteeing hepatitis B and C screening to all individuals. Notably, all individuals born prior to 1992, who were deprived of the privilege of hepatitis B vaccination in their youth, will now gain access to free treatment. This transformative initiative is set to benefit around 30-40 million people across the nation.
As part of the Ministry’s comprehensive approach, all hospitals enlisted in the esteemed Gold Card program will actively participate in providing complimentary screening for hepatitis B and C viruses, ensuring easier access for citizens residing nearby. The initiative commences immediately, promising convenience and care for every individual.
**Transmission of Hepatitis B and C: Similar to AIDS**
Similar to AIDS, hepatitis B and C are transmitted primarily through blood and secretions. Unprotected sexual intercourse, sharing infected needles, and mother-to-child contact have all been identified as prevalent modes of transmission. It is crucial for the public to prioritize their wellbeing and remain vigilant against these infectious diseases.
**Target Groups and Screening Protocol**
While the general public is encouraged to undergo screening, certain high-risk groups require particular attention. Specifically, individuals infected with HIV, injecting drug users, men who have sex with men, public health personnel, and prisoners are deemed to be at higher risk. Regular screening for these groups is imperative to ensure early detection and prompt treatment.
For individuals identified with hepatitis C, it is recommended that they undergo screening annually prior to commencing medication and undergoing the curative process. This proactive approach will not only expedite their recovery but also safeguard their long-term health.
**Convenient Channels for Screening Services**
To facilitate comprehensive screening, citizens can avail themselves of conveniently located healthcare facilities. Government hospitals, sub-regional health promotion hospitals, and all public health service centers are readily equipped to provide screening services for hepatitis B and C, ensuring ease of access for every individual seeking preventive care.
**Collaborative Efforts between the Ministry of Public Health and NHSO**
The Ministry of Public Health, in collaboration with the National Health Security Office (NHSO), has been relentless in their pursuit of holistic healthcare. With an unwavering commitment to public well-being, the inclusion of hepatitis B and C screening tests in the National Health Security Benefit Package has been authorized. As part of this package, all individuals born before 1992 are eligible for a one-time screening for hepatitis B (HBsAg) and hepatitis C (Anti-HCV) throughout their lifetime.
It is essential to note that a second screening for hepatitis C is warranted every year for those deemed high-risk. However, it is important to highlight that a fee will be charged for screening services provided to this specific target group. The projected implementation date for this revised fee structure is set retrospectively from 1st April 2023 onwards.
With these groundbreaking initiatives, the Ministry of Public Health takes a colossal stride towards creating a hepatitis-free nation. The commitment to widespread screening, fortified by collaborative efforts and enhanced accessibility, sets the stage for a healthier future.
Ministry of Public Health Set a goal to eliminate hepatitis B and C by 2030, thereby providing benefits for hepatitis B and C screening to all. All treatment rights born before 1992 before hepatitis B vaccination benefits Free for all newborns, which is about 30-40 million people nationwide. To be screened for hepatitis B and C viruses free of charge at all hospitals near homes that participate in the Gold Card programme. starting today
Transmission of hepatitis B and C viruses
Hepatitis B and C are transmitted in the same way as AIDS, from blood and secretions. unprotected sex with infected needles and mother-to-child contact
target group
general public
Can be audited 1 time for life
Risk group
people infected with HIV injecting drug users men who have sex with men Public health personnel, prisoners
He should be screened for hepatitis C again every year if found before taking medication and curing him.
Channels for screening services for hepatitis B and C viruses
People can be screened for hepatitis B and C at
Government hospitals, sub-regional health promotion hospitals All public health service centres
The Ministry of Public Health together with the NHSO pushed for the inclusion of hepatitis B and C screening tests in the National Health Security Benefit Package. Everyone born before 1992 can be screened for hepatitis B with HBsAg and screened for hepatitis C with Anti-HCV once in their lifetime.
However, those who are entitled to a second hepatitis C screening every 1 year, the service unit will receive a fee when providing screening services to target groups. Effective retrospectively from 1 April 2023 onwards.
#NHSO #free #screening #Hepatitis
