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TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) – Prison authorities in Kansas are focusing on the treatment of the most advanced hepatitis C cases among the approximately 600 inmates with the disease, due to budget limitations and high treatment costs.
Acting Correctional Secretary Roger Werholtz informs Wichita Eagle that the department wants to ensure that all patients are treated before release. Werholtz says 43 inmates are considered a high priority.
The Kansas Department of Corrections estimates that the treatment of hepatitis C among the 591 inmates will cost about $ 9 million. A state contract provides only $ 1.5 million per year for treatment.
Several states, including neighboring Missouri, have been sued for their allegations of mistreatment or inadequate treatment of inmates with hepatitis C, a viral infection that attacks the liver. Werholtz says some lawmakers have expressed concern over limited funding.
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