Richmond, Jacqueline

Smith, Elizabeth

Wallace, Jack

Duncan, Duane

Lucke, Jayne

2017-07

<p>Background and objective</p><p> A significant proportion of Australians with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) remains undiagnosed and unaware of their risk of liver disease and cancer. This study explored the hepatitis B testing and diagnostic experiences of people with CHB, general practitioners (GPs) and primary care nurses. </p><p>Method</p><p> Semi-structured interviews were conducted with people who have CHB (n = 19), GPs (n = 14) and nurses (n = 5). </p><p>Results</p><p> The majority of patient participants with CHB were not provided with information prior to being tested, and were shocked to receive a diagnosis. Neither GPs nor nurses noted Australia's <i>National hepatitis B testing policy</i> as guiding their practice, and hepatitis B contact tracing was poorly executed. </p><p>Discussion</p><p> Patient participants' diagnostic experiences did not correspond with national policy recommendations. GPs and nurses need resources to provide accurate information when testing and diagnosing hepatitis B, and clear guidance about their role in contact tracing</p>

Australian Family Physician, 46(7), p. 513-519

0300-8495

28697296

https://hdl.handle.net/1959.11/52892

en

Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP)

Hepatitis B testing and diagnosis experiences of patients and primary care professionals in Australia

Journal Article

Publication