Corrections_Today_November_December_2019

Prisons also recommends opt-out voluntary test- ing of all inmates for HCV infection regardless of sentencing status and all inmates are eligible for consideration of treatment. Creating partnerships In closing, Dr. Nelson stressed the importance of the CDC partnering with correctional facilities and other organizations that deal with viral hepati- tis to ensure that state and local health departments work together to help tackle this emerging prob- lem. As Dr. Nelson noted, since about one-third of HCV-infected persons are in corrections, it is of utmost importance that partnerships are created in order to efficiently test, treat and prevent transmis- sion of HCV, and ultimately eliminate the infection overall. Through universal testing, treatment programs and prevention tactics, such as syringe services programs, Medication-Assisted Treatment and the HCV cure, a combined effort is needed to achieve that goal.

— Robert Breckenridge II

Corrections Today November/December 2019 — 45