"The key argument for community-led approaches to
hepatitis (HCV) testing, treatment and care is that
they are highly effective in increasing HCV testing
and treatment uptake and retention rates among people
who use drugs due to their unique advantage in
providing privileged access. This access is a crucial
pathway, allowing for multiple points of entry essential
for reaching both the treatment and non-treatment
populations.
As highlighted in the case studies included in this
Technical Briefing, the impact of peer workers and
drug user activists on the expansion of HCV testing,
treatment and care is substantial. Their dedication
aligns seamlessly with the strategic objective
of saturating peer networks with essential resources
and knowledge, thereby facilitating broad access
to comprehensive HCV testing, treatment and care.
This briefing includes two case studies that spotlight
successful community-led approaches in Portugal
and Norway, offering valuable insights into the effectiveness
of integrating peer-led initiatives into HCV
healthcare strategies." (p. 3 of this document)
European Network of People who use drugs (EuroNPUD): https://www.euronpud.net/