Experts Propose National Hepatitis C Elimination Plan

Legislative efforts aim to create a coordinated testing and treatment program to reduce hepatitis C transmission nationwide.

Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in COVID-19

Isometric editorial illustration of a clinical laboratory centrifuge, representing the national strategy for hepatitis C diagnostic testing and elimination. — Health experts at IDWeek 2026 proposed a national hepatitis C elimination strategy, urging federal legislators to fund comprehensive diagnostic testing and treatment programs. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Should the federal government invest in a national program to eliminate hepatitis C?

Experts at the IDWeek 2026 conference in Washington, DC, highlighted the need for a national strategy to eliminate hepatitis C in the United States. This discussion comes as federal legislators consider bills aimed at creating a comprehensive testing and treatment program.

Why it matters

Eliminating hepatitis C in the United States requires a significant expansion of current prevention, diagnosis, and treatment access. Experts emphasize that scaling these efforts is essential to curb transmission rates across the country.

Public health experts identified gaps in the U.S. response, specifically noting that the nation provides fewer clean injection equipment options compared to global peers. It remains unknown how a centralized federal program would overcome existing systemic barriers to care.

The players

IDWeek

An annual scientific meeting focused on infectious diseases and public health strategies.

The details

Successfully eliminating hepatitis C requires high-level political commitment paired with robust surveillance systems to accurately measure disease burden. Experts suggest that pilot programs are necessary to determine which prevention and treatment methods are most effective within the unique constraints of the U.S. health system. These measures aim to bridge the gap in diagnostic testing and ensure more people can access curative treatment.

June 2025: Senate introduced the Cure Hepatitis C Act.
July 2026: House introduced companion bill for hepatitis C program.
October 21-24, 2026: IDWeek 2026 held in Washington, DC.

Health Landscape

The proposed Cure Hepatitis C Act seeks to transition the U.S. toward a unified national program for viral eradication. This legislative push aligns with global strategies that prioritize centralized surveillance and increased access to preventive resources.

If you are concerned about hepatitis C, talk to your doctor about current testing options available in your local area. Staying informed about the availability of local diagnostic and treatment resources is an important step in managing your liver health.

The takeaway

Elimination of hepatitis C requires a multi-pronged approach involving both improved clinical access and dedicated public policy support. If you are at risk, discuss screening options and preventive strategies with your primary care physician to stay proactive regarding your liver health.