Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Test

Adventist HealthCare aims to improve the care of patients living with Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) in Prince George’s and Montgomery Counties and our surrounding communities. We provide a private, safe and effective way of testing.

About Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) is a contagious and potentially life-threatening liver disease that is curable. HCV is spread through contact with the blood of an infected person. Testing for HCV is easy and knowing your status can result in faster, more effective treatment options. If you have HCV, you should work with your health care provider to assess your liver damage and discuss your treatment options before it progresses.

Am I At Risk of Hepatitis C?

You are at elevated risk for Hepatitis C if you answer yes to any of the following questions:

• Did you receive a blood transfusion before 1990?
• Were you born between 1945 and 1965?
• Have you ever used needles to inject (illegal) drugs?
• Do you have tattoos or piercings?
• Have you ever engaged in risky sex?
• Are you on dialysis?
• Has your natural mother been diagnosed with HCV?
• Do you live with someone who has HCV?

If you answered yes to any of the questions – and while there is still some controversy surrounding how often you should test for HCV – health care experts recommend that patients be tested at least once in his or her lifetime, no matter what. 

How Can I Get Tested for Hepatitis C?

It's our goal to reduce the number of undiagnosed individuals; decrease the number of people undiagnosed late; and provide recommendations for access to care and treatment.

When you visit the emergency department at Fort Washington Medical Center or White Oak Medical Center, you can elect to be tested. Alternately, patients can simply walk-in and ask to be tested.

What Can I Expect After I’m Tested for Hepatitis C?

Following your Hepatitis C test at Fort Washington or White Oak Medical Centers, you can expect:

• Test results typically take up 72 hours or in some cases, 3 days after testing.
• If your results are ABNORMAL, you will be contacted to schedule a meeting to discuss your results.
• If you are contacted, DO NOT PANIC. A member of our team will assist you every step of the way. Additionally, initial results may vary, which is why secondary testing is encouraged.
• If you were tested at Fort Washington Medical Center, you can always call 301-203-2000, Monday-Friday (9:00 am – 5:00 pm) and ask for a Nurse Navigator.
  If you were tested at White Oak Medical Center, you can always call 240-637-4000, Monday-Friday (9:00 am – 5:00 pm) and ask for our Program Coordinator.
• If you are unable to reach a Nurse Navigator or Program Coordinator, please leave a message. Be sure to include: name, date you were tested, telephone number and the best time to reach you.