Abstract
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Objective: The aim of this study was to assess psychiatrists ’ Hepatitis C
virus (HCV)-related knowledge and behaviour practices.
Method: A self-report survey was completed by doctors working at an urban
psychiatric hospital in Australia.
Results: Doctors working in psychiatry underestimated the prevalence of
HCV infection for their patients and less than one-third felt well informed
about HCV. Overall, there was good knowledge regarding HCV acquisition
epidemiology but knowledge of management was poor.
Conclusion: Improving knowledge about HCV, especially current management,
may facilitate better health care for patients with severe mental illness.