Interferon Treatment Impacts

The impact of interferon treatment on those infected with Hepatitis B or C often resulted in severe side effects, both psychological and physical. The Inquiry recommended that more be done to recognise the impact of interferon in the scheme. The Inquiry proposed that interferon could be better recognised by moving all those who received it to the equivalent of Cirrhosis Level 3 band. Alternatively the Inquiry suggested the Government could introduce a new infection severity band, between Level 2 (Chronic) and Level 3 (Cirrhosis). The Government proposes to introduce a new core route infection severity band for those who received interferon treatment, to be referred to as Level 2B. The Government will consult on the proposed awards for Level 2B to ensure these properly reflect the impacts of interferon treatment.

As proposed in the consultation, the Regulations will introduce a new ‘Level 2B’ award so that people who suffered from the side-effects of interferon treatment receive an additional Injury award, as well as further Financial Loss and Care compensation, to reflect the impact it had on their lives. Following the consultation, the Regulations will also make sure that people who received more than one round of interferon will be properly compensated for each of these rounds of treatment.