Hep C Discussion Forum

I had the opportunity to speak with a patient that is currently undergoing treatment for HCV GT 3 and on the Sov/Dac protocol. The topic of lab testing came up and the difficulty of getting a request written by your doctor and approved by your insurance carrier. Normally we do not promote retail or medical services and will maintain that. However, we have all seen or experienced the difficulty of obtaining some of the tests we would like to have completed. Often that reason is based solely on the guidelines set by our insurance carrier. I'm a firm believer that knowing your progress can be a huge morale booster. Having to go into treatment knowing your viral load, dealing with the highs and lows of treatment and then being told you have to wait 6 months to know if treatment was successful, can be difficult to bear. 

I found a national lab service here in the USA that offers walk in lab services on request. You are responsible for the cost involved, but they do seem affordable for many tests. They do offer HCV RNA testing at various prices, depending on the specific test. There is a lab locator service and all services can be requested online. 

I recommend you do this is concert with your doctor and if they are unable to get your testing approved with your insurance carrier, there is always this option. I believe most doctors will work with patients, understanding current limitations being applied by insurance providers. We have been discussing this quite often recently and I felt this was important to share. I do not endorse or encourage this as a way to self treat or diagnose. It is for informational purposes only. 

USA:  Walkinlab

Canada Services: Blood Tests Canada

I'm closing the thread so it doesn't get lost in replies.