Yes, that is true, Richard, and I thought you`d say that!    We all have to do what we need to do, and as I said, it`s your choice.  I`m not aware of anyone on this forum who has used one but I can see that in your situation it might be worth considering.

Best of luck anyway, and can you let us know how you get on? 

Cheers, Jill

Hi Jill,

Thanks for your response.

I guess human error can occur in any situation, though, not just with a home test kit.

I've just found out that the clinic where I had the initial basic blood work done has recommended that my results be "verified by HCV RNA-PCR or by Western Blot HCV."

So I'll check the local Health Department to see if they can help.

Cheers,

Richard

p.s. I like your Jewel quote: "In the end, only kindness matters."

Hi Richard, I don`t think I would recommend using a home testing kit for something as important as this, even if does save you money.   If you have a negative result it still wouldn`t guarantee that you weren`t actively infected as it can take up to 6 months from the time of infection for enough antibodies to be produced for them to be detected.  And if you had a positive result you would still need to consult a doctor who specialises in liver diseases in order to have further tests and discuss possible treatment options.  Added to this is the risk of human error.

That`s my opinion anyway, others may see if differently.  At the end of the day it`s your choice, of course.

Cheers, Jill

ps - I`ve removed your link as we don`t allow adverts here.

Hi Malcolm,

Many thanks for your reply.

Given my limited funds, do you think this home Hep C testing kit would do the job?

Thanks,

Richard

Hi Richard,

Testing +ve to HCV antibodies means you have been exposed to The HepC virus in the past. The next step is to obtain a HepC PCR Viral Load test. This is the only way to know if you have active disease. If your PCR test is -ve you do not have any circulating virus at present. If there is virus present it will be given as a number, and it shows you have active disease.

Hi,

I am new on this forum and would appreciate guidance.

I just had a blood test where I "tested positive for Hep C antibodies."

I have looked online but am confused as to which test I need to have next... presumably to diagnose whether or not I actually have Hep C.

I'm concerned about the cost - I have very limited finances right now. I live in San Diego, but don't have medical insurance. (I have a Green Card, but am not a US citizen).

I have a printed copy of the blood test.

Thank you for any help you may be able to give me.

Richard