New York State Hepatitis C Testing Program

What is the New York State Hepatitis C Virus Testing Program?

This program provides free HCV test kits, controls and testing supplies to programs that serve underinsured populations at highest risk for HCV.

How do programs meet the eligibility requirements?

To be eligible, programs must have:

  • A valid Limited Services Laboratory (LSL) Registration Certificate.
  • Hepatitis C screening protocols, policies and procedures.
  • A comprehensive quality control plan.
  • A bloodborne pathogen policy.
  • Proper space and equipment to conduct the test.
  • Staff trained on how to use the test device.
  • Staff with a strong understanding of hepatitis C, including the proper counseling messages based on test results.
  • An account on the NYSDOH Health Commerce System.
  • The ability to collect and report data to the health department.
  • A written linkage agreement with a provider who can, at minimum, perform hepatitis C diagnostic testing and medical evaluation.
  • The ability to track linkage to care for all reactive clients.

Does the New York State Hepatitis C Virus Testing Program pay for HCV diagnostic testing (HCV RNA)?

Enrolled programs are encouraged to participate in the on-site HCV RNA testing component of the program, with Dried Blood Spot testing (DBS). DBS testing supplies are also provided by the NYS HCV Testing Program.

How do programs enroll in the New York State Hepatitis C Virus Testing Program?

Interested programs should contact NYS HCV Testing Program staff at the number or email below to discuss enrollment and their plan for meeting the above-listed eligibility requirements. Technical assistance with the enrollment process is provided by the NYS HCV Testing Program.

What are the ongoing requirements of enrolled programs?

In addition to adhering to the NYSDOH Clinical Laboratory Evaluation Program (CLEP) Standard Practices in Laboratory Medicine for sites registered as a Limited Service Laboratory (LSL), enrolled programs must report monthly testing data and participate in periodic conference calls and comprehensive program review.

Sites Registered as a Limited Service Laboratory

Programs currently performing other waived tests, such as HIV rapid testing, registered with the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) Wadsworth Center as a Limited Service Laboratory must complete and submit a Limited Services Laboratory Registration - Notification to Add and/or Delete Test Procedures form.

Sites Not Registered as a Limited Service Laboratory

Non-clinical providers must register their testing site(s) with the NYSDOH Wadsworth Center as a Limited Service Laboratory to offer hepatitis C rapid testing. This registration requires completion of an application form, submission of the application with a $200.00 fee and submission of the Limited Services Laboratory Registration - Notification to Add and/or Delete Test Procedures form. Applications are available at NYSDOH Wadsworth Center The NYSDOH requires designation of a licensed health care practitioner who will function as site director and provide technical and clinical oversight of testing.

Questions for New York State Department of Health Wadsworth Center

Questions concerning CLEP requirements related to the protocol should be directed to James Holland at (518) 402-4141 or, via email at james.holland@health.ny.gov.

Where can programs get more information about enrollment?

Contact the NYS Department of Health Bureau of Hepatitis Health Care