Hepatitis C Bridge Counseling

What is Hepatitis C Bridge Counseling?

CareReach supports the Hepatitis C Bridge Counseling Program in Buncombe County, a specialized service designed to move patients “from care to cure” and reduce the potential for community transmission of hepatitis C. Bridge counseling provides comprehensive, patient-centered support, including testing, linkage to medical treatment, access to supportive resources, and consistent follow-up throughout the treatment process.

By addressing clinical, social, and logistical barriers to care, the community program thereby improves initiation, supports adherence, and increases the likelihood of completing treatment plans among individuals at high risk, contributing to improved health outcomes.  

Through the dedicated efforts of the Hepatitis C Bridge Counselor, community members receive individualized care. These services are provided at no cost, and individuals are eligible regardless of insurance status. The Bridge Counselor conducts an initial face-to-face assessment and provides ongoing follow-up, including accompanying individuals to medical appointments when needed. This model ensures access to education, resources, and community engagement in a supportive, nonjudgmental, and personalized manner. 

Bridge Counseling is voluntary and confidential.

The CDC recommends all adults be tested for hepatitis C; through targeted outreach and strong community partnerships, the program addresses knowledge gaps, reduces stigma, and builds trust—key factors in increasing access to care among individuals who are disproportionately impacted and least likely to engage in traditional healthcare settingsOverall, small case counts make hepatitis C reporting unreliable, particularly at the county level.

In North Carolina, estimates indicated that approximately 110,000–150,000 individuals are living with hepatitis C statewide, underscoring the significant public health burden. In 2020, the state experienced a 3.4% increase in reported acute hepatitis C cases, demonstrating unmet needs and concerns regarding transmission factors.

There are no requirements for your current state of health to participate; this includes any past or present drug use or involvement with the legal system.

Details and Benefits

  • Services are voluntary, confidential, and no-cost. Individuals will need to sign a Consent to Participate in Bridge Counseling and a Release of Information for the Bridge Counselor to communicate with their medical provider(s) and other agency providers if needed.

  • Individuals are eligible regardless of insurance type or uninsured.

  • Participation includes an initial face-to-face assessment with follow-up contacts by phone. The Bridge counselor will accompany individuals to appointments if requested.

  • Program benefits include support in problem-solving barriers to successful treatment and assistance in accessing needed community resources, including transportation options. Please note that we do not directly provide transportation.

Areas Served

  • Buncombe County

  • If you are an individual living in another county, please feel free to call. The Bridge Counselor will facilitate the referral to the Bridge Counselor in that county, if one is available, or assist in locating treatment for the individual.

How to Make a Referral

Referrals are accepted through self-referral, community agencies, and medical providers. To make a referral, please complete the referral form and fax to 828-398-2734, or call CareReach at 828-772-4719.

Contact Us

Call 828-772-4719 to speak to Christine S., Hepatitis C Bridge Counselor
Mon- Fri, 8:30a-5:30p, Thurs-only 8:30a-4:00p 
(calls returned during business hours only within 1-2 business days, depending on need) 
Fridays: Walk-Ins Available 10:00am-4:00pm 40 Coxe Ave, Buncombe County DHHS 

Click here for a printable brochure.

What is Hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C, or Hep C, is a blood-borne infection of the liver that is caused by the hepatitis C virus. For some people, Hep C is a short-term illness, but for more than 50% of people who become infected, it becomes a long-term, chronic infection. People with chronic hepatitis C can live for years without symptoms or feeling sick. An estimated 2.4 million people are living with Hep C in the United States, but many don’t know they are infected. Left untreated, Hep C can lead to serious health problems including liver disease, liver cancer and even death.

There is no vaccine for hepatitis C, but a simple blood test can tell you if you have ever been infected with the virus.
Hepatitis C can be cured. Treatments are available that can cure most people in 8 to 12 weeks. Getting tested is the only way to know if you have Hep C. Talk to your doctor or call your Local Health Department for testing. 

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