Gauhati high court orders free Hepatitis C testing and treatment in Nagaland
KOHIMA: The Gauhati high court Kohima bench directed the Nagaland government to provide all necessary tests for the diagnosis and treatment of Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) free of cost.
This ruling aims to enhance the efforts of Nagaland health department in managing and controlling HCV among the population in the Northeast state.
A division bench comprising Justice Devashis Baruah and Justice Budi Habung instructed the Nagaland government to ensure that Model Testing Centres (MTCs) remain fully functional, allowing patients access to facilities outlined in the National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme (NVHCP).
This directive came after the state's counsel assured the court that MTCs are operational throughout the week.
The judgement emphasized the guidelines' provision for free medical diagnosis and treatment for both Hepatitis B and C at all levels of healthcare.
The court noted that MTCs have been established in several districts of Nagaland, including Kohima, Dimapur and Mokokchung, among others.
“If the testing for complete blood count, liver function test, kidney function test, and any other test(s) are required in connection with the prevention, diagnosis, or treatment for Hepatitis B and/or C, the said patients have to be afforded free testing,” the judgement stated.
This decision came in response to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed in 2018 by several health advocacy groups, highlighting inadequate measures by state authorities to address the HCV epidemic.
The petition called for free testing and treatment in accredited hospitals, better public awareness, and the inclusion of necessary medications in the state’s essential drug list.
The Nagaland government reported the establishment of MTCs and testing centres across various districts and acknowledged logistical challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite these challenges, the court recognized significant progress since the PIL was filed, noting the operational status of MTCs and the availability of free testing kits and medications.
The court also commended the efforts of the petitioners' counsel, Neiteo Koza, and the respondents' counsels, N Mozhui for the state and Yangerwati for the union government, in bringing the issue to light and facilitating the progress made.
The court's order aims to ensure the continued provision of essential diagnostic tests free of cost and maintain the functionality of MTCs across Nagaland to support the state's goal of eliminating Hepatitis C by 2030.