New viral hepatitis diagnosis tools available for GPs
Date Added: 03/11/11
Simple tools for GPs to tackle undiagnosed and treated viral hepatitis have been launched by the Hepatitis B Foundation.
Using successful and effective messages from around the world, posters for use in GP surgery waiting rooms and GP desk cards have been produced.
80% of both Hepatitis B and C patients still remain undiagnosed. The UK’s 500,000 plus undiagnosed sufferers are contributing to thousands of preventable cases of end stage liver disease, as estimated by the All Party Commons Group in 2002.
Ethnic, social, occupational and patient groups, so far overlooked by testing and vaccination messages, are targeted by the Hep B Foundation’s GP tools.
The A3 laminated posters will be piloted in participating surgeries' waiting areas. GPs will also be provided with desk cards on counselling, results, higher vaccination/extra risks.
Lead surgeries are being recruited to this Project, which the Hep B Foundation say will save lives and a great deal of money for the NHS.
For further information email Paul Desmond at the Hepatitis B Foundation: PDesmond@hepb.org.uk