Where can I get tested?
In SA, call your GP, Aboriginal Health Service, or a Viral Hepatitis Nurse to arrange for testing.
Central: Jeff (0423 782 415)
Deborah (0401 717 953)
Amanda (0466 851 759)
North: Bin (0401 717 971)
Serena (0413 285 476)
South: Rosalie (0466 777 876)
Lucy (0466 777 873)
Fingerstick tests are available at special testing clinics, some alcohol and drug services, clean needle program sites, homelessness services and Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services.
For more information call the Hepatitis SA Helpline on 1800 437 222.
What if I test positive?
Hepatitis C can be cured with tablets taken daily for 8
Visit https://bit.ly/hcvcure-communityinfo or scan the QR code below:
Hepatitis SA Tel: 1800 437 222 or (08) 8362 8443
Kaurna Country 3 Hackney Rd Hackney SA 5069 PO Box 782 Kent Town SA 5071 www.hepsa.asn.au 1800 437 222
Last update: June 2023
SA Health has contributed funds towards this Program.
Should I get tested for hepatitis C?
Get a hepatitis C test if you had:
unsterile tattoos or body piercing
a blood transfusion before 1990
injected drugs (even just once)
How do you test for hepatitis C?
medical, dental or cosmetic procedures overseas
Hepatitis C is tested with a blood sample. Depending on the test method, the sample can be taken with a needle and syringe and sent to a lab, or it can be a small drop of blood taken with a rapid fingerstick test (providing results on the spot).
Testing could be in one or two steps:
Other risks include rough sex or anal sex, or other exposure to blood such as needle-stick injury, fighting or contact
Two-step testing – The first test checks for hepatitis C antibodies. An antibody positive result means you have had hepatitis C before. A second test is done to confirm that the hepatitis C virus is still present and has not been cleared from your body naturally or by treatment.
One-step testing skips the antibody test, going directly to test for the virus (RNA or genetic material).
Results available in
Antibody 1–2 weeks
Needle and syringe method: RNA 1–2 weeks
Rapid Fingerstick RNA 60 minutes
Rapid Fingerstick Antibody 1-10 minutes