On the way to Hepatitis C elimination in the Republic of Georgia—Barriers and facilitators for people who inject drugs for engaging in the treatment program: A formative qualitative study

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0216123
• Publication Date: 2019-04-29T21:48:24Z
• Authors: Ivdity Chikovani; Danielle C. Ompad; Maia Uchaneishvili; Lela Sulaberidze; Ketevan Sikharulidze; Holly Hagan; Nancy L. Van Deva...
• Keywords: Hepatitis C; Snowball sampling

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a significant public health concern worldwide. Georgia among the countries with high burden of HCV infection. People who inject drugs (PWID) have highest in Georgia. In 2015, Government Georgia, partners' support, initiated one world's first Elimination Programs. Despite notable progress, challenges to achieving targets persist. This qualitative study aimed better understand some barriers and facilitators testing treatment services for PWID inform policies practices. The instrument examined social, structural, individual factors influencing We started key informant interviews guide development compare findings against care planners' providers' views. Forty various experiences were recruited through snowball method. found that along structural such as political commitment, co-financing diagnostic monitoring tests, friendly clinic environments, knowledge about elimination program benefits, support from family peers also play facilitating roles accessing services. On other hand, inability co-pay fear side effects associated treatment, poor infection, lack social hampered practices PWID. Findings this are important increasing effectiveness unique population at risk