Primary care is set to take centre stage in the treatment and prevention of blood borne viruses, with the official launch of the Victorian HIV and Viral Hepatitis Integrated Training and Learning (VHHITAL) program last night.
Representatives from all the VHHITAL consortium partners were on hand to support the launch and share their views on how the program will support GPs and other primary health professionals deliver better and more accessible care.
North Western Melbourne PHN CEO Adj/Associate Professor Christopher Carter said the launch showed the solid commitment to improving blood borne virus care in our region, where HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C affecting tens of thousands of people.
“It was really great to see so many partners, staff and supporters that contributed to the successful bid and who we will continue to work with closely over the coming years during the implementation and delivery phases,” A/Prof Carter said.
“With the new treatments available, and with such a strong partnership behind us, we have a real opportunity to significantly reduce the impact these conditions have on our community.”
VHHITAL will provide s100 HIV and hepatitis B prescriber training for GPs, as well as treatment education, training and support for all health professionals providing care to people living with HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C.
The program is a joint effort between NWMPHN, the Australasian Society for HIV, Viral Hepatitis and Sexual Health Medicine, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Alfred Health and the Victorian PHN Alliance, funded by the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services.
