DC Health and Academic Prep Program (DC HAPP)
Beyond the Bars: Reimagining the DC Correctional System as the Frontline for Hepatitis C Elimination
Files
Download Full Text (215 KB)
Description
Hepatitis C is a major public health concern among incarcerated populations, who are infected at rates approximately 10 times higher than the general U.S. population. In Washington, D.C., an estimated 12,700 people are living with hepatitis C, and the District has one of the highest HCV prevalence and mortality rates in the nation. Although hepatitis C is highly curable, many incarcerated individuals do not receive treatment despite having enough time to complete therapy while incarcerated.
This project proposes a comprehensive hepatitis C program for the D.C. prison system that addresses HCV through prevention, intake screening, treatment during incarceration, and post-release follow-up. Prevention efforts include education, stance use rehabilitation, harm reduction, and safer tattooing practices. At intake, all individuals will receive opt-out hepatitis C screening following CDC recommendations. Those diagnosed will receive direct-acting antiviral treatment and substance use services to reduce reinfection and improve continuity of care.
By combining universal screening, timely treatment, education, and long-term follow-up, this program aims to reduce hepatitis C transmission, improve health outcomes, and advance hepatitis C elimination efforts within one of Washington, D.C.’s highest-risk populations.
Publication Date
2026
Keywords
Hepatitis C Infection; Incarcerated Population; D.C. Prison System; Hepatitis C Prevention
Recommended Citation
Jalloh, Rahimatu; Munoz, Amber; Lee, Riyan; Martinez, Kristen; Allen, Malia; and Lin, Gerard, "Beyond the Bars: Reimagining the DC Correctional System as the Frontline for Hepatitis C Elimination" (2026). DC Health and Academic Prep Program (DC HAPP). 36.
https://hsrc.himmelfarb.gwu.edu/dchapp/36
Open Access
1
Comments
© 2026 The Authors. All Rights Reserved.