Prescribing direct‐acting antivirals to treat hepatitis C virus in a general practice setting in Australia: “So why not do it”?

The recent implementation of a scheme to provide universal access to direct-acting antiviral (DAA) medication to treat hepatitis C virus (HCV) places Australia in a unique position to reach global HCV elimination goals. To achieve this, increasing the uptake and success of DAA treatment in general practice settings is essential.This study aims to explore current enablers and residual barriers to HCV treatment in general practice settings in the post-interferon era from both GP and patient perspectives.Semi-structured interviews with 11 GPs and 27 patients were conducted to draw out both challenges and facilitators particularly relevant to DAA uptake and treatment journeys.Key enablers for successful treatment identified by this study included peer-led GP support and skill development, utilisation of electronic reminder systems, trusting relationships with patients and engaging with patients' social and family networks. Barriers related to accessible testing facilities and knowledge and confidence with DAA treatment continue to limit GP-led treatment.Despite a universal access scheme, barriers to DAA prescription in general practice settings remain. These include access to fibrosis testing and GP confidence in DAA prescription. Strengthening peer-led GP skill development and utilisation of electronic reminder systems may help GPs prioritise HCV treatment. Access to fibrosis testing and pathology services with no out-of-pocket costs to patients, particularly in outer-metropolitan areas, should be urgently addressed. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved