The effect of the Hepatitis C elimination policy to implementation in the local administrative organization area, health region 3

Abstract

This study aimed to the effect of the hepatitis C elimination policy to implementation in the local administrative organization area, Health Region 3. The mixed-method research method was used, which was a sequential, interpretive method. Quantitative data collection and analysis were conducted in the first phase, followed by qualitative data collection and analysis in the second phase. The researcher gave equal importance to both quantitative and qualitative data, which were used to complement or support each other. Integration occurred in the interpretation and discussion stages of the results. Quantitative data were collected using data from the hepatitis C screening results in Health Region 3 to achieve 90 percent of the target number in fiscal years 2022-2023, and qualitative data were collected using a documentary research, in-depth interviews, and non-participatory observation. Content analysis and data quality check by triangulating data collection methods. The sample groups were divided into 2 groups: Group 1, the target group at risk of hepatitis C infection in 2022-2023, consisting of 3,557 and 14,544 persons, respectively; and Group 2, 15 personnel from public health agencies and local administrative organizations in the local administrative organization area who voluntarily participated in the hepatitis C screening in Health Region 3. The results of the study found that in 2022-2023, Health Region 3 had local administrative organizations participating in the hepatitis C screening in every province and exceeding the set target. The results of the hepatitis C screening in the local administrative organization area of ​​Health Region 3 met the target of 90 percent, with screening results of 93.36 percent and 93.23 percent, respectively. In this regard, the implementation of health policies should use mechanisms at all levels to jointly implement them, with key hosts at all levels, and policies that are clear and can be implemented. There should be sufficient and appropriate resources in the community, including the development of the potential of medical personnel to support the care of hepatitis C patients. In the next study, there should be a study care system to develop to be more comprehensive and appropriate for patients.