Hepatitis C Screening

Saint Luke’s offers a simple finger-prick blood test that will tell whether you have Hep C. The test is confidential and you'll find out your results within 30 minutes. Please contact Saint Luke’s Liver Biliary & Pancreatic Center to schedule an appointment.

Hepatitis C: Should You Get Tested?

Hepatitis C: Should You Get Tested?

Woman having blood drawn.

Hepatitis C is a disease that damages your liver. It can cause major health problems. You can even die from it. And you might not even know you have it. Hepatitis C is caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). This virus spreads from person to person through blood. You’re at risk for hepatitis C if infected blood enters your body. Are you at risk for hepatitis C? If so, get tested.

When to get tested

Get tested if you have:

  • Shot up drugs, even once

  • Shared needles, syringes, cotton, spoons, water, or other works

  • Received blood or had an organ transplant before 1992

  • Received clotting factors made before 1987

  • Ever had kidney dialysis

  • Higher than normal levels of liver enzymes in your blood

  • Tested positive for HIV

It is recommended that people born between 1945 and 1965 have a one-time screening test. People with abnormal liver tests should have HCV antibody testing done. If you had any possible blood exposure, hepatitis C testing is required.

Other possible risks

Ask your healthcare provider about getting tested if:

  • You may have had contact with infected blood at your job.

  • You’ve had sex without a condom with someone who may be infected.

  • You’ve shared personal items, such as a toothbrush or a razor, with someone who may be infected.

  • You have tattoos or body piercings.

Saint Luke's Liver & Transplant Specialists

From liver transplantation to preventive care, Saint Luke’s provides a full range of services for patients with disorders involving liver, bile ducts, and pancreas.