Jordan Valley Health Offers Free Hepatitis C Testing

SPRINGFIELD, MO — In support of National Hepatitis Testing Day on Tuesday, May 19, Jordan Valley Health is
offering free Hepatitis C (Hep C) testing through August 31, 2026. This initiative is part of a nationwide effort to
raise awareness about viral hepatitis, encourage routine screening, and connect individuals to potentially life-saving treatment.

Jordan Valley Health will provide fast, confidential, and free Hepatitis C testing at most of its clinic locations.
Testing is open to the public, with no appointment required at participating sites.

Why Hepatitis C Testing Matters
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 2 million people in the United States are living with Hepatitis C, and many are unaware they are infected. Because Hepatitis C often causes no
symptoms for years, it can quietly lead to serious health complications, including liver damage, cirrhosis, liver
cancer, and liver failure if left untreated. Fortunately, today’s treatments can cure more than 95% of cases with
oral medication and minimal side effects. The CDC recommends that all adults be tested for Hepatitis C at least
once in their lifetime, with more frequent testing for individuals with certain risk factors.

Who Is at Risk
Hepatitis C is spread through contact with infected blood. While anyone can get Hepatitis C, higher-risk groups
include people who have injected drugs, received blood transfusions before 1992, or have certain medical
conditions or exposures.

Regular testing is an important step in protecting both personal and public health. Early detection allows
individuals to begin treatment sooner and reduce the risk of long-term complications.

“We want our community to understand that Hepatitis C is often curable, especially when caught early,” said
Karen Barrand, Operations Director for Jordan Valley Health. “Many people living with Hep C have no symptoms,
which is why testing is so important. Knowing your status can help protect your long-term health and prevent
serious liver disease.”

For more information on where and how to get tested at Jordan Valley Health, visit JordanValley.org/FreeTest.

About Jordan Valley Health

Jordan Valley Health is a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) focused on increasing access to high-quality,
comprehensive health care services throughout Southwest Missouri, including rural communitie