Characterizing the impact of a novel electronic consultation platform on access to Hepatitis C treatment in Manitoba.

Access to Hepatitis C (HCV) treatment requires a specialist referral in Manitoba, Canada, with specialist availability posing barriers to HCV care. This work assessed the impact of eConsult, an electronic platform that enables Primary Care Providers (PCPs) to access specialist advice, potentially reducing face-to-face patient visits. This single case study was conducted at Nine Circles Community Health Centre in Winnipeg. Charts of individuals referred via traditional pathways (Dec. 2016-Dec. 2017) and eConsult (Dec. 2017 - Dec. 2019) were reviewed, and stakeholder interviews were conducted with PCPs and an HCV specialist. Compared to traditional referrals, eConsult patients were more likely to link to specialist care (100% vs. 69%, P = 0.026) and complete HCV treatment (79% vs. 36%, P = 0.049). The use of eConsult may improve access to HCV care in Manitoba, with outcomes shaped by system agility, adaptability across contexts, and the altruism of healthcare providers who support its use.