Hepatitis C Dried Blood Spot (DBS) testing guidance document

Summary

​​​​​The Dried Blood Spot (DBS) testing for hepatitis C' Guidance Document (the Guidance Document) provides state-wide guidance to Local Health Districts and non-government organisations about conducting hepatitis C DBS testing through NSW Health Pathology. The Guidance Document was developed in consultation with the DBS Working Group and NSW Health Pathology, and supports the transition of DBS hepatitis C testing from a trial environment to clinical care.

Dried Blood Spot testing for hepatitis C

The guidance document will assist Local Health Districts, Justice Health and Forensic Mental Health Network, and Non-Government Organisations to: 

  • identify and implement key actions for embedding DBS hepatitis C testing into clinical care 
  • provide an overview of the DBS sampling requirements and testing process 
  • identify the resources required to conduct testing, including supplies, staffing and pathology processes
  • support workforce capability by outlining training requirements, competency expectations and roles for staff involved in DBS testing 
  • integrate DBS testing into existing services and models of care ​
  • ​identify priority populations who would benefit from more accessible hepatitis C testing 
Contact page owner: Centre for Population Health