Name of the Procedure:

Common Name(s): Home Infusion Therapy
Technical/Medical Term: HCPCS S9379 - Home Infusion Therapy, Infusion Therapy Not Otherwise Classified; Administrative Services, Professional Pharmacy Services, Care Coordination, and All Necessary Supplies and Equipment

Summary

Home infusion therapy involves administering medication directly into the bloodstream, usually through a needle or catheter, at the patient's home. This service includes all necessary administrative and professional pharmacy services, care coordination, and the provision of essential supplies and equipment. Please note that the cost of drugs and nursing visits is billed separately.

Purpose

Medical Conditions or Problems Addressed:

• Chronic infections
• Dehydration
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Pain management
• Severe immune deficiencies
• Certain neurological and gastrointestinal disorders

Goals or Expected Outcomes:

• To provide necessary treatments in the comfort of the patient’s home
• To reduce the need for hospital admissions
• To improve patient quality of life and convenience
• To ensure effective and safe medication administration outside a clinical setting

Indications

Specific Symptoms or Conditions:

• Conditions requiring long-term intravenous medication
• Chronic illnesses that necessitate regular infusions
• Patients requiring nutrient supplementation that cannot be managed through oral intake

Patient Criteria:

• Patients who are stable enough to receive treatment at home
• Those who have or will receive appropriate training for home care (or have a caregiver who can be trained)
• Individuals who have safe and suitable home environments

Preparation

Pre-procedure Instructions:

• Follow specific dietary or fluid intake guidelines as advised by your healthcare provider
• Arrange for someone to be present during the first few sessions if possible
• Ensure all prescribed diagnostic tests are completed, such as blood work

Diagnostic Tests or Assessments:

• Blood tests to determine the necessity and dosage of the infusion
• Previous medical history and medication review
• Evaluation of home environment suitability by healthcare professionals

Procedure Description

Step-by-Step Explanation:

1. The healthcare provider delivers the necessary supplies and equipment, including IV poles, medication, and disposables.
2. The patient or caregiver receives training on how to prepare the medication and set up the infusion.
3. A sterile technique is used to insert the needle or catheter into a vein.
4. Medication is administered following the prescribed infusion rate.
5. The infusion site is monitored for any complications or adverse reactions.
6. Post-administration, the equipment is cleaned and stored properly.

Tools and Equipment Used:

• Infusion pumps
• Needles or catheters
• IV poles and tubing
• Medication and diluents
• Antiseptic solutions and sterile dressings

Anesthesia or Sedation:

• Not typically required for the actual infusion; however, numbing cream might be used to minimize discomfort from needle insertion.

Duration

The time required for each infusion depends on the type and volume of medication but typically ranges from 30 minutes to several hours.

Setting

Where Performed:
The patient’s home, under the periodic oversight of healthcare professionals.

Personnel

Healthcare Professionals Involved:

• Home health nurses
• Pharmacists
• Care coordinators
• Technicians for equipment setup and maintenance

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Infection at the infusion site
• Phlebitis (vein inflammation)
• Medication side effects

Rare Risks:

• Severe allergic reactions
• Air embolism

Possible Complications and Management:

• Monitoring for signs of infection, proper antiseptic techniques
• Immediate response to any adverse reactions, such as administering antihistamines or epinephrine in case of allergic reactions

Benefits

Expected Benefits:

• Convenient treatment scheduling
• Reduced hospital visits and hospital-associated complications
• Tailored, patient-centric care

Timeframe for Benefits Realization:

• Improvement in symptoms can be immediate to several weeks, depending on the underlying condition.

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care and Instructions:

• Keep the infusion site clean and dry
• Watch for signs of infection or complications and report them immediately
• Maintain follow-up appointments with healthcare providers

Expected Recovery Time:

• No significant downtime; however, ongoing therapy may be needed depending on the condition.

Restrictions or Follow-Up Appointments:

• Follow specific instructions related to diet and activity
• Regular follow-up with healthcare provider to assess effectiveness and make any necessary adjustments

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• Oral medications
• Hospital-based or clinic-based IV therapy

Pros and Cons of Alternatives:

• Oral Medications: Less invasive, but may be less effective or not possible for certain conditions.
• Clinic-Based IV Therapy: Professional monitoring, but less convenience and higher costs compared to home therapy.

Patient Experience

Patient Feelings During and After the Procedure:

• Initial sessions may involve some discomfort from needle insertion
• Most patients feel minimal discomfort during the infusion
• After the procedure, patients may experience minor soreness at the infusion site

Pain Management and Comfort Measures:

• Use of numbing cream or cold packs to minimize needle discomfort
• Ensuring comfortable setup at home for a relaxed infusion experience