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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.