We recently hosted an evening dedicated to strengthening connections between Canberra’s clinical and Community Health Sectors as part of our ongoing commitment to eliminating viral hepatitis by 2030. The event, Good Liver, Good Life: Partnering for Viral Hepatitis Elimination brought together nurses, GPs, specialists, and public health professionals to share insights, reflect on progress, and explore new opportunities to improve liver health outcomes across the ACT. The evening served as an important reminder that the path to elimination requires both clinical innovation and community collaboration, two pillars that continue to guide our work in the region.
Collaborating for a Healthier Canberra
The event featured insightful presentations from leading gastroenterologists and a nurse practitioner academic who shared current best practices in hepatitis B and C management, including updates on simplified treatment pathways, testing guidelines, and care coordination. Their expertise underscored how evidence-based care and early intervention remain essential in achieving better liver health outcomes.
Adding a community perspective, our Programs Manager presented an overview of our organisation’s work throughout 2025. This included updates on point-of-care (POCT) hepatitis C testing, harm reduction services, community education programs, and outreach initiatives designed to reach priority populations. Together, these efforts demonstrate Hepatitis ACT’s ongoing commitment to bridging clinical practice with real-world community impact.
Speakers emphasised that while Australia has made strong progress toward its elimination targets, there is still work to be done in closing the gaps in diagnosis, care, and long-term monitoring, particularly for people living with hepatitis B. Events like these play a crucial role in keeping these conversations active and solutions-focused, providing a valuable platform for clinicians and service providers to connect, exchange insights, and identify new opportunities for partnership in the local response.
Continuing the Conversation
Hepatitis ACT extends it’s sincere thanks to all who attended and contributed to the evening’s discussions. The enthusiasm, expertise, and collective commitment in the room reflected the strength of Canberra’s health community and its shared dedication to improving liver health and wellbeing for all. As we continue our mission to eliminate viral hepatitis by 2030, we remain committed to working alongside clinicians, pharmacists, and community partners to expand access, reduce stigma, and empower people through education and care.
Thank you to our speakers on the evening:
- Dr Chris Helms, Adj Associate Professor, PhD, RN, NP, MSN, ANP-BC, FACNP – Bridging Health
- Dr. Shivakumar Chitturi – Staff Specialist, Gastroenterology & Hepatology Unit, Canberra Hospital
- Dr Purnima Bhat – Gastroenterologist, Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Canberra Hospital
- Dr Sarah Walker – Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist, Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Canberra Hospital
Thank you to our sponsors AbbVie, without them this event would not have been possible
The full gallery of photos from the event can be found here: Good Liver, Good Life: Partnering for Viral Hepatitis Elimination
