REACH_U

The REACH_U project is a micro-elimination initiative for the hepatitis C virus (HCV) targeting people in extremely vulnerable situations exposed to its contraction and spread, including substance users, homeless individuals, migrants, and refugees. It began in December 2020, continuing the work that has been developed by Street Technical Teams.

This project aims to meet the need for bringing healthcare closer to the community context. Specifically, it consists of a specialized Street Technical Team (nurse and peer) who reach out to people where they are located (such as abandoned houses, forests, open-air consumption sites, etc.), promoting access to health education, screening, and treatment for HCV.

In this way, the entire process – screenings, tests, consultation with a specialist doctor, and provision of medication – is carried out without the need for hospital visits, in a container-like and familiar location within the community, resulting in increased adherence and, consequently, in the micro-elimination of the virus.

REACH_U partners with Hospital de Santa Maria, Prof. Dr. Rui Tato Marinho, Dr. Paula Ferreira, and Dr. Ricardo Crespo.

Co-Funders

Target Group

People in situations of extreme vulnerability exposed to the contraction and spread of HCV (people who use psychoactive substances, people in a homeless situation, migrants, and refugees).