Introduction. Screening and treatment for chronic hepatitis C in France remain inadequate. Developing effective strategies to increase the number of infected individuals receiving care requires a thorough understanding of their perceptions of their disease and its treatment. Method. A qualitative study conducted in Burgundy between 2006 and 2008 consisted of interviews with 11 people with viral hepatitis C, both before and after treatment. Results. Analysis of the interviews reveals a shift in perceptions over time, with pre-treatment interviews reflecting medical discourse and post-treatment interviews being more personalized. It reveals the shock of the diagnosis, the reasons for accepting treatment that are specific to each person and based on their perceptions, and the difficult experience of treatment. Discussion and Conclusion. To improve the care of patients with HCV infection and to break down existing barriers, the involvement of a therapeutic education professional appears essential. (R.A.)