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IV Therapy FAQ
Frequently asked questions about in-home IV therapy:
What is IV therapy at home?
In-home intravenous (IV) therapy (also called home infusion) allows patients to receive IV medications in their own home. Patients find the convenience and comfort of being at home very appealing. Patients can often return to their normal routines and, in some cases, even return to work while still on therapy.
What services are included under home infusion therapy?
In-home IV therapy involves the administration of drugs in a patient's home. These drugs may be administered by the patient, by a family member or friend, or by a trained nurse.
In-home IV therapy experts provide the following services for patients:
- Education and training: Our MedStar Visiting Nurse Association IV nurses teach patients and their loved ones to take care of the IV site and administer the drug therapy. Since the nurse is not in the home every day, the patient or caregiver learns to take care of the IV and drug administration by themselves. The IV nurse visits regularly to ensure the IV site is maintained and the drug administration is going well.
- Clinical pharmacy and nutrition services: Licensed pharmacists, pharmacy technicians and a registered dietician facilitate clinical care between the patient, the nurse and the physician.
- Supplies and equipment: MedStar VNA arranges for all medications and IV equipment to be delivered to the patient's home.
How do I receive in-home IV therapy from MedStar VNA?
If you or a family member is interested in receiving our services, please talk with your physician or healthcare provider. You may also contact us for more information.
When will service begin?
A nurse will contact the patient within 24 hours of the doctor's referral. After evaluating the patient's needs, we will determine a treatment and visit schedule. Services will begin based upon the doctor's orders.
How frequently does the IV nurse visit?
The IV nurse creates a patient care plan that is customized to the needs of the individual. The nurse will discuss each patient's care schedule with the patient and/or the patient's caregiver during the first visit. At the initial evaluation, the IV nurse will determine the timing and frequency of visits based on the individual patient's needs.
How do I qualify for in-home IV therapy?
In-home IV therapy and other infusion therapy can begin once the doctor overseeing the patient's care writes a prescription for the service.
Will my insurance company cover in-home IV therapy services?
Coverage of home infusion therapy services varies by insurance company. Many private insurance companies cover in-home IV therapy services as long as certain conditions are met. Medicare coverage of these services may be limited. However, Medicare beneficiaries often have access to in-home IV therapy services if they are fully covered by a secondary insurance. Privately insured patients should contact their insurance carriers to determine if in-home IV therapy services are covered by their plan.
Is MedStar VNA accredited to provide in-home IV therapy services?
Yes. To ensure we have the confidence of those we serve, our agency adheres to the highest standards of quality and service for patients under our care. We maintain:
- Accreditation by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations
- Pharmacy permits in all jurisdictions served
- Licensure as a regional service agency
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