Is there a waiting time to commence treatment for hepatitis C?
There is a period of time prior to commencing treatment which will vary from one Liver Clinic to another and from one private specialist to another. In that time, a pre-treatment assessment consisting of blood tests, liver ultrasound, and psycho-social assessment will be done. As a very general rule, it may take up to three (3) months to have your first appointment and up to a further three (3) months to begin treatment. Hepatitis C is a slow progressing disease and this three to six month waiting period will not have adverse consequences. If your situation is urgent, your GP will advise the specialist or clinic and you will be seen more rapidly.
