Testing and Treatment

Everyone should consider getting tested for Hepatitis C. Routine testing is not usually included in annual physicals unless requested, and many people don’t know they have hepatitis C until they’re tested. If you’ve never been tested—or aren’t sure if you have been—testing is the only way to know your status.

You can get tested at any time. If you think you may have been exposed, it’s best to wait three months before testing to ensure accurate results.

What Kind of Test Is Done?

Hepatitis C testing involves two steps:

1. Antibody test – shows whether you’ve ever been exposed to hepatitis C.
2. Confirmatory test (if needed) – checks whether the virus is currently in your blood.

Testing methods may include:

• Dried blood spot testing (finger prick; results in ~3 weeks)
• Point-of-care testing (finger prick; antibody results in ~20 minutes)
• Venipuncture (blood draw; results in 1–2 weeks)

Where Can You Get Tested?

Testing is available through family doctors, public health units, and Sanguen. Local options include:

• St. John’s Kitchen – Mondays, 11:00 am–1:00 pm (97 Victoria St. N, Kitchener)
• Sanguen Community Health Van – Tuesday nights in Cambridge; Wednesday and Thursday nights in Kitchener and Guelph
• Region of Waterloo Public Health – 99 Regina St. S, Waterloo (call 519-575-4400 for availability)

If you test positive for hepatitis C, Sanguen’s clinical team will meet with you to discuss treatment and support you through the process.

What Treatment Looks Like

Hepatitis C treatment has changed significantly in recent years. Most people take one pill once a day for 8–12 weeks. Side effects are usually mild—many people notice none at all, and some feel better once treatment begins.

Our team will talk with you about:

• Which medication is right for you
• Possible side effects and how to manage them
• What to expect during treatment

Treatment Costs and Coverage

Hepatitis C medications can be expensive, but cost should not prevent you from getting treated. Sanguen can help you:

• Understand your coverage options
• Apply for drug assistance programs
• Navigate private insurance or public funding

Most people are able to access treatment with little to no cost out of pocket. If you have questions or concerns about affordability, please talk to us—we’re here to help.

How Do We Know Treatment Is Working?

The goal of treatment is a sustained virologic response (SVR). This means the virus cannot be detected in your blood three months or more after treatment ends.

Appointments and Follow-Up

Attending scheduled bloodwork and clinical appointments is important so we can properly support your treatment. If you miss or need to reschedule an appointment, please call us as soon as you can. We understand that life can be busy, and we’re always happy to help you rebook.

If Treatment Doesn’t Work

Fewer than 5% of people do not respond to their first course of hepatitis C treatment. If this happens, there are effective follow-up treatments available. These are also typically one pill daily for about three months, with very few side effects and a high chance of success.

Sanguen offers support and resources for STI testing and treatment, including access to self-testing kits and follow-up care as needed.

STI Self-Testing Resources

Self-testing kits are available for:

• Urine samples
• Throat swabs
• Anal swabs
• Vaginal swabs

Test forms and specimen containers can be obtained from your doctor or nurse practitioner.

Sanguen provides access to PrEP, a medication that helps prevent HIV for people at higher risk. When taken as prescribed, PrEP is highly effective. Contact us to learn more about eligibility and how to get started.