Prospective Evaluation of a Fast-track Treatment Pathway for Patients With Chronic Hepatitis B Under Primary Care
This is a retrospective-prospective longitudinal cohort study, with analyses performed before and after introduction of the pathway, and comparisons made to unexposed controls. We will launch a protocol-driven management for CHB patients, and provide the appropriate assessment tools (transient elastography, HBV DNA assay) to general outpatient clinics (GOPC) in Hong Kong. Patients who fulfil treatment criteria will be referred to specialist outpatient clinics (SOPC) in a fast-track manner. We will also evaluate the linkage-to-care rate 3 years before the launch of this care pathway retrospectively.
• Adult patients with positive hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) for 6 months
• Under the care of GOPC