Information: Hepatitis B and C Screening

Talk to your doctor or clinic.
You can ask your primary care provider, a local clinic, or a community health center for a Hep B or Hep C test. Just say, “I’d like to be screened for Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C.”

Get a blood test.
A small sample of blood is taken from your arm.

• • For Hep B, the blood test checks if you are infected now, were infected in the past, or are protected from the vaccine.
  • For Hep C, the first test checks if you ever had the virus. If that test is positive, a second test shows if the virus is still active.

Wait for results.
Results usually come back within a few days. Your provider will explain what they mean.

Follow-up if needed.

• • If your results are normal, no further testing is needed unless your doctor recommends it.
  • If you test positive, your doctor will talk with you about treatment or monitoring. Hep C can now be cured with medication, and Hep B can be managed safely with the right care.

• Your regular doctor’s office
• Community health centers
• Public health clinics
• Some urgent care clinics
• Some pharmacies and mobile health programs (varies by location)

Most insurance plans cover Hep B and Hep C screening—often at no cost. Many public health clinics offer free or low-cost testing if you don’t have insurance.

Screening is easy, quick, and can help protect your health. A simple blood test gives you clear answers.