Once a patient and his or her physician have decided to start treatment for their hepatitis C infection, the next step is to set up a visit with a Hepatology nurse. At this first visit with the nurse, she will discuss the treatment plan, side effects of the medications, laboratory schedule and physician visit schedule.
Patients receive a copy of the laboratory and physician visits schedule.
At first glance, the number of visits may seem overwhelming. It is important, however, to remember that the initial frequent blood draws and correspondence with the hepatology team, are essential to ensure the safety of the patient and the efficacy of the treatment. Because of the many side effects of combination therapy, liver enzymes, hemoglobin, white blood cells and platelet counts are monitored at baseline and weekly at the beginning of treatment through blood tests. These laboratory values, as well as how the patient feels, will assist the physician in medication adjustments as needed. Many of the medication adjustments will prevent patients from becoming anemic and can also prevent suppression of the immune system.