Infusion Center

Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, and every first and third Saturday of the month from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The Center for Neurosciences provides outpatient infusion services for certain oncologic and benign disorders. The Infusion Center delivers IV medication prescribed by your neurologist or neuro-oncologist, which can now be administered in the same building as your doctor for your convenience.

Our Infusion Center opened in August 2020 and currently treats up to 170 patients per month utilizing 8 individual treatment chairs. We have 4 registered nurses with oncology training who monitor each patient's vital signs every 30 minutes, and they have the capability to access Port-A-Cath, PICC lines, and midlines for patient convenience.

For your comfort and convenience, you are welcome to bring food and beverages to your appointment as well as an electronic device and headset. One loved one is welcome to be at your side during treatment.

Infusion site amenities include a relaxing outpatient setting with an atrium view, comfortable recliners, television and free Wi-Fi, and blood work drawn on site.

Main diagnoses currently receiving treatment at our facility include, but are not limited to, glioblastoma / high-grade glioma, CIDP (chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy), MMN (multifocal motor neuropathy), and NMOSD (neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders).

When your physician refers you to the Infusion Center, a medication order is sent to the infusion coordinator. Many health plans have strict requirements in order to approve coverage for infusion therapy. The Infusion Coordinator will promptly conduct an insurance benefit investigation and assess whether prior authorization is needed. If it is needed, we will coordinate with your insurance plan to obtain it as soon as possible. Please be advised that this process may take up to 14 days.

During this time you may be asked to complete additional lab work to meet insurance criteria for approval.

Once prior authorization for treatment is approved, you will receive a call from the Infusion Coordinator, who will review the coverage and discuss any patient financial responsibility. Your infusion will then be scheduled.

Hydration: Being well hydrated allows for easier IV placement and minimizes possible side effects from medication. Unless advised otherwise by your doctor, increase your normal water intake for 2 days prior to the appointment and avoid caffeine or alcoholic beverages, as they can cause fluid loss.

Dressing appropriately: Dress comfortably and consider dressing in layers, as it can feel chilly while getting an infusion. Blankets are always available as needed.

Vital signs and health history: Prior to your infusion, the nurse will take your vital signs and ask you specific questions about your health history that are relevant to treatment.

IV insertion: An IV catheter will be inserted into a vein in your hand or arm. If you have a Port-A-Cath, this can be used.

Premedication: Your physician may order medication such as Benadryl or Tylenol before your treatment to prevent an infusion reaction. You may be instructed to take these at home or may be given them when you arrive for your appointment.

IV treatment: Medication ordered by your physician will be infused using an IV pump. To reduce the chance of an infusion reaction, your medication will be given slowly. Some medications have fewer side effects when IV fluids are given as part of the treatment.

Side effects: You will be closely monitored during your infusion, and vital signs will be checked intermittently. If you do not feel well during the infusion or have pain at the IV site, be sure to let your nurse know.

Treatment time: Total treatment time will vary depending on the type of regimen you receive. Some infusions can take up to 3-4 hours. Your nurse will be able to estimate the length of time for your treatment.

Post-dose observation: Several medications require observation after the infusion has been completed. You will need to stay in the Infusion Center during this time, and your nurse will inform you if a post-dose observation is needed.

Discharge instructions: Before you leave the Infusion Center, you will be given post-care instructions and information on how to contact a team member with questions or concerns about your infusion.