General Information & FAQ

What is the HOPE Clinic?

 The HOPE Clinic is a treatment program for individuals infected with chronic Hepatitis C.  There are several types of hepatitis.  This clinic provides treatment for Hepatitis C only.

What is Hepatitis?

 Hepatitis is a disease that causes inflammation and damage to the liver.  Hepatitis is sometimes caused by toxins, drugs, alcohol, or hereditary health conditions.  Hepatitis can also be caused by a microorganism such as a virus.  The HOPE Clinic treats viral Hepatitis caused by the Hepatitis C Virus (HCV).

Aren’t there different types of viral hepatitis?

 Yes.  The table below explains some of the differences and similarities between Hepatitis A, B, and C.

I think I’m at risk.  How can I get tested for Hepatitis?

The HOPE Clinic only accepts clients who are already diagnosed with Hepatitis C.  However, you can get tested for Hepatitis at any of our clinic sites.

If I have one type of hepatitis, am I immune to the others?

NO!  Each type of viral hepatitis is caused by a different virus.  Being infected by one does NOT protect you from being infected by the others. 

But there is a vaccine for Hepatitis A and B.  Being immunized can protect you from being infected by these two viruses.  There is NO vaccine for Hepatitis C.

How much does it cost to participate in the HOPE Clinic?

Although the clinic is designed to provide affordable treatment for Hepatitis C, the HOPE Clinic is not free.  Much of the labwork and medications are free, thanks to donations and community partnerships.  Clients will be responsible for paying for other services such as clinic visits based on a sliding fee scale.  Clients must complete a financial screening with the Health Department to determine their fee category.

 Who should come to the HOPE Clinic?

The HOPE Clinic is for individuals infected with Hepatitis C who do not have other access to treatment.  Many of our HOPE Clinic clients do not have health insurance or need financial assistance to help pay for their treatment, which can cost thousands of dollars.

What are the criteria for enrollment in the HOPE Clinic?

There are strict criteria for acceptance into the HOPE Clinic.  Not everyone who is interested will be accepted into the program.  Because of limited funding, we are only able to accept a small group of clients each month. Clients most likely to be selected for enrollment are those individuals who meet the program criteria and those who will be truly committed to the treatment program.

Some of the criteria are:

o        No drinking!  Not even socially.  Not even sometimes.

o        No drug use.  (Clean for at least 6 months)

o        Must attend Hepatitis C Support Group meetings which are held the first Tuesday of every month the Port Charlotte Cultural Center, 7 pm.

o        Participate in Hepatitis C education programs. (Schedule can be obtained at the HOPE Clinic)

o        Use birth control.

o        Must be free of health conditions that may interfere or worsen with treatment such as:

§         Advanced, decompensated liver disease

§         Thyroid disease

§         Uncontrolled autoimmune disorders

§         Pre-existing mental health conditions, such as untreated depression or severe anxiety

§         Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus

o        Must keep all appointments.  Labwork may be required as often as every week.  You must be flexible enough to make appointments as needed to monitor your progress while on treatment.

Can I use the HOPE Clinic for my other health issues?

 No.  The HOPE Clinic is for Hepatitis C treatment only.  You must have a primary care provider to address your other medical needs.

If you do not have a provider, you may enroll in primary care through the CCHD clinic.

Does the HOPE Clinic accept residents of other counties?

Yes, we can accept non-Charlotte County residents.  However, these clients must pay for their own lab work which can be very costly.  In addition, out-of-county residents are responsible for their own transportation to the HOPE Clinic.

What treatment for Hepatitis C does the HOPE Clinic offer?

The HOPE Clinic provides Hepatitis C treatment that usually involves 2 medications.  Interferon is an injectable medication taken once a week.  Ribavirin is a pill taken twice a day. Treatment is a commitment.  Clients can expect to have regular clinic appointments for 6 months to over a year.  Treatment does not work for everyone.  Success can depend on the HCV genotype (or strain) but ranges from 40-80%.  If treatment does not appear to be effective, clients may be asked to discontinue drug therapy.

 Does the HOPE Clinic provide liver biopsies or transplants?

No.  Unfortunately, the HOPE Clinic is unable to provide liver biopsies, ultrasounds, surgery, transplants, or other advanced procedures.  We can, however, refer clients to other clinics that provide these services.

What are the side effects of Hepatitis C treatment?

Treatment for Hepatitis C can be very difficult for some individuals.  Some people experience flu-like symptoms, fatigue, weight loss, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, depression, changes in blood cell counts, and anemia.  Side effects subside the longer therapy is continued, but dealing with them can be very difficult.  The HOPE Clinic offers various methods of support to help clients on treatment.

 I’m interested in enrolling in the HOPE Clinic.  What should I do next?

 1.)             Take care of your liver.  Stop drinking alcohol, if you have not done so already.  Refrain from taking drugs.  Monitor what you put in your body as it may affect your liver.  This includes smoking, diet, medications, and other substances.

2.)             Take care of your body.  Make an appointment to have a physical if you have not had one in the past 12 months.  Check to see if you have underlying health conditions that may interfere with Hepatitis C treatment.

3.)             Find support.  Join the Charlotte County Hepatitis C Support Group.  It meets the 1^st Tuesday of every month at 7 pm in the Charlotte Cultural Center.  Bring friends, family, and other loved ones.

4.)             Get educated.  Learn about your liver and how it functions in your body.  Learn about Hepatitis C treatment and what it involves.  Look on-line starting with the links below, or contact CCHD for resources.

5.)             Gather your medical records.  You will need to bring labwork showing when you were diagnosed with Hepatitis C.  Also, if you have been on treatment before, bring medical records related to the treatment.

6.)             Assess your readiness for treatment.  Clients must be physically and mentally stable to start Hepatitis C treatment.  Thinking about treatment? Why not complete our assessment tool (.doc/ 146.5 kb).

7.)             Make an appointment.  

Call 639-1181 extension 2255.

Where is the HOPE Clinic located? 

The HOPE Clinic is located at our Punta Gorda site.  Clients are responsible for their own transportation to the clinic. 

514 E. Grace Street

Punta Gorda, FL 33950

 How can I get more information about the HOPE Clinic?

        Call 639-1181 extension 2255 or 2231.

How was the HOPE Clinic started in Charlotte County?

      The HOPE Clinic is a collaborative effort between CCHD, St. Vincent DePaul Community Pharmacy, the Charlotte County Medical Society, and private drug companies.  After recognizing the burden of Hepatitis C in Charlotte County and the cost barriers to treatment, these agencies wanted to provide this much-needed program in an affordable way.  It is a true example of community partners working together to meet the needs of our community. 

Am I a Candidate for Treatment?  Complete this quiz (.doc / 146.5 kb).

Links

            www.cdc.gov/hepatitis

http://www.doh.state.fl.us/disease_ctrl/aids/hep/index.html

www.liverfoundation.org

http://www.pegasys.com/

http://www.pegintron.com/peg/application