Theme: Social Science & Policy Research Year: 2024
Background: The World Health Organization has identified hepatitis C virus (HCV) self-testing as a priority in order to reach elimination by 2030. HCV self-testing has the potential to reach those at risk of HCV; however, there is a lack of understanding on how to roll out HCV self-testing to affected communities. The aim of this study was to determine the preferences of those with experience in the Canadian correctional system about how to best roll out HCV self-testing
Methods: We conducted semi-structured interviews with 15 people who have been incarcerated. Participants were recruited in collaboration with a prisoner advocacy organization based in Toronto, Canada.
Results: Participants indicated they would be open to receiving a HCV self-testing kit from either an outreach organization, a pharmacy, a primary care clinic, by mail, or all of the above. Approximately half would prefer to receive a kit immediately upon release from corrections, while fewer participants indicated receiving it at anytime, six months after release, or while incarcerated. Feedback on sample posters advertising HCV self-testing included using images of prisons, mentioning statistics, and featuring positive messaging to combat stigma. Resource lists, treatment options, peer involvement in creating content, simple language, and positive messaging were suggested for HCV website development. Almost all participants would be willing to do non-mandatory reporting of their results into a web-based portal. Ideally, participants would like to choose their method of receiving results either by phone, text message, in-person, or via email.
Conclusion: HCV self-testing was well received by people who have experience in the correctional system. Participants provided valuable insight into how a program may be shaped and delivered; and iterations of self-testing roll out should consider incorporating such findings.