STATE PLAN FOR HEPATITIS C

(a) The department shall develop a state plan for prevention and treatment of hepatitis C. The plan must include strategies for prevention and treatment of hepatitis C in specific demographic groups that are disproportionately affected by hepatitis C, including persons infected with HIV, veterans, racial or ethnic minorities that suffer a higher incidence of hepatitis C, and persons who engage in high risk behavior, such as intravenous drug use. (b) In developing the plan, the department shall seek the input of: (1) the public, including members of the public that have hepatitis C; (2) each state agency that provides services to persons with hepatitis C or the functions of which otherwise involve hepatitis C, including any appropriate health and human services agency described by Section 521.0001, Government Code; (3) any advisory body that addresses issues related to hepatitis C; (4) public advocates concerned with issues related to hepatitis C; and (5) providers of services to persons with hepatitis C. (c) The department shall update the state plan developed under this section biennially.