HEP Connect — Hepatitis C Testing & Treatment

What Is Hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), often called Hep C, is an infection that attacks the liver. It spreads through contact with infected blood. Many people who have Hep C do not know they are infected because the virus can live in your body for years without causing obvious symptoms. That is why testing is so important.

When symptoms do appear, they may include:

• Pain in the abdomen (belly area)
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Bloating
• Feeling very tired (fatigue)
• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)

If left untreated, Hep C can cause serious liver damage over time. The good news? Hep C is curable.

What Is HEP Connect?

HEP Connect is a program at Health Plus Indiana that helps people get tested for Hepatitis C and, if needed, connected to treatment right away. We do not just test you and send you on your way. Every person in the HEP Connect program gets a dedicated case manager who walks with you through every step of the process.

How We Test for Hepatitis C

Testing for Hep C is simple. We use an HCV antibody blood test. A small sample of blood is taken and checked for signs that your body has been exposed to the virus. Results are usually available quickly. If your test shows a positive result, your case manager will explain what comes next and help you start treatment.

Treatment That Works

Today’s Hep C treatment is easier and more effective than ever. Treatment uses direct-acting antiviral tablets — pills that target the virus directly. These medicines have a success rate of 95% or higher. Most treatment courses last just 8 to 12 weeks. For many people, that means a cure is only a few months away.

How We Support You

At Health Plus Indiana, we know that dealing with a health issue like Hep C can feel overwhelming. That is why our HEP Connect program offers more than just medicine. We help with:

• Insurance navigation — We help you understand your coverage or find insurance if you do not have it.
• Scheduling — We set up your appointments and make sure everything runs smoothly.
• Transportation — Need a ride to your appointment? We can help arrange that.
• A dedicated case manager — One person who knows your story and is there for you from start to finish.