On July 28, known as World Hepatitis Day, a high-level meeting was held at the Tengiz Tsertsvadze Center for Infectious Pathology, AIDS and Clinical Immunology, reviewing the country’s achievements and next steps in combating viral hepatitis.
Health Minister Mikheil Sarjveladze emphasized the success of Georgia’s Hepatitis C Elimination Program which has provided free treatment to over 91,300 citizens since its launch in 2015. With 87,000 completing therapy and a cure rate of 98.5%, the program is seen as a global model in public health. Patients face no out-of-pocket costs for diagnostics or medication.
Discussions at the meeting focused on prevention, early detection and enhanced diagnostic tools, alongside the importance of public awareness campaigns.
Sarjveladze also mentioned the 2024 launch of the Hepatitis B Management Program, which is similar to the C program by offering comprehensive care at no cost. He commended Professor Tengiz Tsertsvadze for his ‘invaluable’ role in shaping both initiatives.
