This analysis, based on real-life economic data from a representative sample of Italian HCV-infected patients in care, confirms clinical and economic benefits associated with timely treatment of patients diagnosed through the approved screening programme in Italy.

As a result of the disease complications avoided, the Italian NHS can expect to break-even from the investment in anti-HCV treatment for patients diagnosed through screening in 4.3 years.

This evidence on cost benefits of treatment for patients is important for the ongoing decision-making process of Central and Regional decision makers, which are now responsible for the allocation of resources dedicated to Direct Acting Antiviral (DAA) treatment.