Center for Neurosciences Infusion Center
Hours: 8:30am – 5pm M-F and every first and third Saturday of the month 8:30-12:30 on Saturdays
Contact: 520-795-7750
The Center for Neurosciences is providing 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 can 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 currently have 4 registered nurses with oncology training who monitor the patient’s vital signs every 30 minutes. 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 during your appointment as well as an electronic device and headset. One loved one is allowed to be at your side during treatment as well.
Infusion Center
Infusion site amenities include:
- A relaxing outpatient setting with an atrium view
- Comfortable recliners
- Television/Free Wi-Fi
- Snacks and beverages
- Blood work drawn on site
Currently the main diagnoses receiving treatment at our facility include but not limited to:
Oncology Indications
- Glioblastoma / High Grade Glioma
Non-Oncology Indications
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Myasthenia gravis
- CIDP (chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy)
- MMN (multifocal motor neuropathy)
- NMOST (neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders
Referral and insurance information
When your physician referred you to the infusion center, a medication order was 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 if prior authorization is needed. If it is needed, we will coordinate with your insurance plan to obtain this as soon as possible. Please be advised that this process may take up to 14 days.
During this time you may be asked to get additional lab work to meet insurance criteria for approval.
Once the 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. Then your infusion will be scheduled.
How to prepare for your treatment
- 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 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. It can feel chilly while getting an infusion. Blankets are always available as needed.
Pre- infusion
- 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 in 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 to be given before your treatment to prevent an infusion reaction. You may be instructed to take these at home and may be given these when you arrive for your appointment.
Infusion
- IV treatment: Medication ordered by your physician will be infused using an IV pump. To reduce the chance of infusion reaction, your medication will be given slowly. Additionally, some medications have less side effect if IV fluids are given as part of the treatment.
- Side effects: You will be closely monitored during your infusion. 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 tie the estimated length of time for treatment.
Post infusion
- Post dose observation: There are several medications that require observation after the infusion has been completed. You will need to stay in the infusion center during this time. Your nurse will inform you if you need to stay for a post dose observation.
- Discharge instructions: Before you leave the infusion center you will be given post care instructions and how to contact the team member for questions or concerns about your infusion.