Having both addiction and hepatitis C is common, but you don’t have to treat them separately. At Arrow Medical, we understand these conditions often go together, and we’re equipped to help with both.
Understanding the Connection
People who use drugs have higher rates of hepatitis C. This happens through:
- Sharing needles or drug equipment
- Using contaminated supplies
- Risky behaviours during active addiction
Having both conditions doesn’t mean you’re hopeless – it means you need comprehensive care.
Why Treating Both Conditions Together Makes Sense
Traditional healthcare often treats addiction and hepatitis C separately. This creates barriers and makes recovery more complicated. At Arrow Medical, we provide integrated care that addresses both conditions simultaneously.
Benefits of integrated treatment:
- One medical team managing your care
- Better coordination between treatments
- Fewer appointments to manage
- A comprehensive approach to your health
Hepatitis C Treatment Options
Modern hepatitis C treatment is highly effective. New medications can cure hepatitis C in 8-12 weeks with minimal side effects.
These medications work even if you’re:
- Currently using drugs
- On methadone, Suboxone or Kadian
- Dealing with other health issues
Addiction Treatment While Managing Hepatitis C
You don’t have to be abstinent to get hepatitis C treatment. Our harm reduction approach means we provide care regardless of your current substance use.
We offer all standard addiction treatments:
- Methadone maintenance
- Suboxone treatment
- Kadian
- Sublocade injections
- Safe opioid supply programs
Our Comprehensive Approach
Arrow Medical’s doctors specialize in addiction medicine and understand how to manage both conditions safely and effectively. We monitor for drug interactions and adjust treatments as needed.
Our team coordinates with:
- Hepatitis specialists, when needed
- Community health services
- Mental health providers
- Social support services
Locations Providing Dual Diagnosis Treatment
All Arrow Medical locations offer treatment for both addiction and hepatitis C:
- Toronto – Three addiction treatment centres
- Barrie – Two locations serving Simcoe County and Muskoka
- Bancroft – Serving Quinte region
- Crystal Beach – Serving Niagara region
Breaking Down Barriers to Care
We know people with addiction face discrimination in healthcare settings. At Arrow Medical, you’ll receive judgment-free care focused on your health and goals.
We remove common barriers by:
- Accepting walk-ins without appointments
- Providing same-day assessments
- Working with your schedule
- Treating you with dignity and respect
What to Expect During Treatment
For Hepatitis C:
- Simple blood tests to confirm the diagnosis
- Discussion of treatment options
- Regular monitoring during treatment
- Cure confirmation after treatment
For Addiction:
- Medical assessment and treatment planning
- Daily medication initially (methadone/Suboxone/Kadian)
- Gradual increase in take-home privileges
- Ongoing support and adjustments
Success Stories
Many of our patients have been successfully treated for both conditions. Getting your hepatitis C cured while stabilizing your addiction often leads to:
- Better overall health
- Increased motivation for recovery
- Improved quality of life
- Hope for the future
Insurance and Cost Coverage
OHIP covers most hepatitis C treatments. Addiction treatments are also covered. We will help navigate insurance and payment options.
Taking the First Step
Don’t let having both conditions overwhelm you. With proper treatment, both are manageable.
Visit any Arrow Medical clinic — no appointment necessary. Our team will assess both conditions and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your lifestyle.
Walk in anytime or call us today. We’re here to help you address both your addiction and hepatitis C with compassionate, expert care.