Overview

Hepatitis C is a disease that affects your liver. It is caused by the hepatitis C virus (called HCV, for short). According to published studies, almost 4 million people in the United States have hepatitis C. Veterans using VA facilities have rates of hepatitis C that are higher than those of the general population.

Here are some things to remember about getting tested for hepatitis C in the VA system:

• Testing is voluntary. It is a decision that you and your doctor can make together.
• If you don't want to have a test for hepatitis C, it will not keep you from receiving other medical care from the VA.
• Your test results will go on your medical record.
• The VA is not the military. You won't lose your VA benefits just because you engage in certain drug or sexual behaviors.

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