During the Era of Pandemic Corona Virus Disease 19, is Telemedicine Effective in the ‎follow-up of Hepatitis C Virus Patients Receiving Direct anti-Viral Therapy?‎‎

Background and study aims: A novel severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus (SARS COV2) outbreak resulting in corona virus disease (COVID- 19) which is known as a pandemic infectious disease. Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a well-known major cause of chronic liver disease and its subsequent major complications. Telemedicine refers to the remote practice of medical care for patients when the provider and patient are not physically present with each other. We aim to assess use of telemedicine in the follow up of chronic HCV patients during treatment by direct antiviral therapy in this era of COVID- 19. Patients and Methods: this study included cross matched 300 patients consulted for HCV treatment. 150 patients were treated in 2019 and followed by routine classic visits (routine classical group). Another 150 patients were treated in 2020 and followed up via virtual visits by telemedicine (telemedicine group). Results: There is no significant statistical difference between the two groups regarding the sustained virological response (SVR) and the recorded side effects during treatment (P= 0.275, P= 0.523) respectively. Conclusion: Use of telemedicine in the follow up of chronic HCV patients during treatment is as effective as the classic way and safer especially in the era of pandemic COVID19.