The California Department of Health has issued a new All Facilities Letter focusing on hepatitis C screening in healthcare facilities, including nursing homes. The letter highlights the importance of early detection, treatment, and lifestyle changes in preventing complications from chronic hepatitis C infection. It encourages healthcare providers to screen patients for hepatitis C in accordance with the recommendations of the United States Preventive Services Task Force, particularly focusing on one-time screening for individuals born between 1945 and 1965. The letter also promotes participation in the Hepatitis C Clinician Honor Roll, a public pledge for physicians to screen their patients for hepatitis C. Healthcare facilities are urged to join the clinician honor roll and visit the California Department of Public Health's Office of Viral Hepatitis Prevention website for more information on viral hepatitis. The letter emphasizes the significant long-term health implications and healthcare costs associated with hepatitis C infection, with annual deaths due to the infection surpassing those due to HIV since 2007. Healthcare facilities must take action to increase the proportion of persons living with hepatitis C who are aware of their infection and linked to appropriate care.

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