Treating children with HCV close to home through a virtual national multidisciplinary network

Background and AimsHepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a major global health problem in adults & children. The recent efficacy of Direct Acting Anti-viral therapy (DAA) has cure rates of 99% in adults and adolescents. These drugs were licensed for children 3–12 yrs during the recent coronavirus pandemic. To ensure equitable access, safe & convenient supply during lockdown, we established a virtual national treatment pathway for children with HCV in England & evaluated its feasibility, efficacy & treatment outcomes.MethodA paediatric Multidisciplinary Team Operational Delivery Network (pMDT ODN), supported by NHS England (NHSE), was established with relevant paediatric specialists to provide a single point of contact for referrals & information. Referral & treatment protocols were agreed for HCV therapy approved by MHRA & EMA. On referral the pMDT ODN agreed the most appropriate DAA therapy based on clinical presentation & patient preferences, including ability to swallow tablets. Treatment was prescribed in association with the local paediatrician & pharmacist, without the need for children & families to travel to national centres. All children were eligible for NHS funded therapy;referral centres were approved by the pMDT ODN to dispense medication;funding was reimbursed via a national NHSE agreement. Demographic & clinical data, treatment outcomes & SVR 12 were collected. Feedback on feasibility & satisfaction on the pathway was sought from referrers.ResultsIn the first 6 months, 34 children were referred;30- England;4 - Wales;median (range) age 10 (3.9 – 14.5) yrs;15M;19F: Most were genotype type 1 (17) & 3 (12);2 (1);4(4). Co-morbidities included: obesity (2);cardiac anomaly (1);Cystic Fibrosis (1);Juvenile Arthritis (1). No child had cirrhosis. DAA therapy prescribed: Harvoni (21);Epclusa (11);Maviret (2) .27/34 could swallow tablets;3/7 received training to swallow tablets;4/7 are awaiting release of granules.11/27 have completed treatment and cleared virus;of these 7/11 to date achieved SVR 12. 30 children requiring DAA granule formulation are awaiting referral and treatment.Referrers found the virtual process easy to access, valuing opportunity to discuss their patient’s therapy with the MDT & many found it educational. There were difficulties in providing the medication through the local pharmacy. However there are manufacturing delays in providing granule formulations because suppliers focused on treatments for COVID, leading to delays in referring and treating children unable to swallow tablets.ConclusionThe National HCV pMDT ODN delivers high quality treatment & equity of access for children & young people, 3– 18 yrs with HCV in England, ensuring they receive care close to home with 100% cure rates.