HHS Launches $100 Million Pilot Program for Hepatitis C Support

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has unveiled a pilot funding opportunity totaling $100 million aimed at preventing, diagnosing, treating, and ultimately curing Hepatitis C (HCV) in individuals dealing with substance use disorders (SUD) or serious mental illness (SMI). The initiative focuses on communities hit hard by homelessness and seeks to find effective strategies for identifying patients, completing treatments, curing infections, and minimizing the chances of reinfection from Hepatitis C, which is a liver disease stemming from the Hepatitis C virus.

“HHS is fulfilling our commitment to ensure a healthier and more promising future for Americans,” expressed HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. “This pilot program represents a comprehensive care model that not only aims to cure HCV but also directly addresses significant risk factors such as substance dependence, mental health issues, and homelessness.”

The Hepatitis C Elimination Initiative Pilot will be initiated and managed by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). It’s recognized as a meaningful step in President Trump’s goal of improving national health. This proactive investment is seen as both a practical and scientifically-founded approach expected to save lives while reducing healthcare costs for communities over time. Organizations at the state and community levels are eligible to apply for this program.

“SAMHSA is dedicated to restoring health across America by providing comprehensive treatment, as we believe that recovery is possible for everyone,” stated Art Kleinschmidt, the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of SAMHSA. “We hope that the demonstration sites chosen will exemplify HHS’s standards for effective treatment, while also developing successful practices that can be replicated in other communities.”

“Hepatitis C impacts more than 2 million individuals in the U.S. and results in thousands of deaths annually. Successfully curing this disease can significantly boost public health and save taxpayers billions by removing the need for long-term care,” remarked Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA). “I appreciate the leadership of President Trump and Secretary Kennedy, and I’m eager to collaborate with them in the fight against hepatitis C.”

Hepatitis C is a long-term illness that frequently coincides with significant health issues, including addiction, mental health conditions, and homelessness. If left untreated, it can lead to more severe health problems such as cirrhosis, liver failure, and even liver cancer. Fortunately, there are now highly effective oral medications available that can achieve high cure rates after just 8 to 12 weeks of treatment.