HCV is the leading cause of both liver-related deaths and liver transplants in the United States. The high cost of new antiviral medicines has sparked debate over the cost of treating HCV, and some payers are seeking ways to minimize their spending on these medicines. Annual medical costs for HCV patients vary greatly by stage, with advanced liver diseases contributing significantly to overall costs. In the absence of a cure, the aggregate US incremental cost of HCV is projected to total $115 billion over the next decade.

This report was commissioned by Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA).