We Are Florida’s ONLY
National Infusion Center Association (NICA) Accredited Facility
Get answers to common questions about infusion therapy at FloMed. Learn about our services, treatment process, insurance coverage, and what to expect during your visit
IV is the abbreviation for intravenous, which means “within a vein”. Typically, infusion therapy is the administration of medications by placing a flexible catheter into the vein using a small needle. Infusion therapy may also refer to the administration of medications through injections. Subcutaneous injections are administered using a small needle just beneath the surface of the skin. Intramuscular injections are administered using a small needle into the muscle.
Infusion therapy is often recommended and prescribed to treat chronic, complex, and rare conditions. Examples of the various diseases/ conditions include, but are not limited to: Alzheimer’s Disease, Hypogammaglobulinemia, Ankylosing Spondylitis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Crohn’s Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, Iron Deficiency, Osteoporosis, Multiple Sclerosis, and Lupus.
Medications administered via infusion therapy bypass the gastrointestinal tract and go straight into the patient’s bloodstream. This allows for a higher medication absorption rate for patients, faster relief of symptoms, and is easier on the gut when compared to many oral medications. Overall, infusion therapy is a more efficient treatment.
No, infusion therapy encompasses the administration of many types of medications whether intravenously or via injection. Chemotherapy is a common infusion therapy using medications to destroy cancer cells and prevent tumor growth. While some medications used to treat autoimmune diseases may be classified as “chemotherapy drugs”, the dosage prescribed for an autoimmune diagnosis is much lower and less toxic than those used in the treatment of cancer.
Most health insurance plans cover infusion therapy. Coverage, cost, and authorization will depend on your insurance plan, diagnosis, and the medications prescribed. Flomed will coordinate with you, your provider, and your insurance company to facilitate your treatment and keep you informed throughout the process. If your insurance does not provide coverage or authorization has been denied, your doctor will determine the next steps and will work with you.
It can take a few days to a few weeks to get scheduled for infusion therapy. The first appointment often takes the longest to schedule. Many insurance companies require preauthorization prior to a patient receiving infusion therapy. It may take days or weeks before Flomed receives the authorization.
The length of time depends on the type of medication prescribed. While some appointments may only take 30 minutes, other infusions may last up to 5 hours.
A loading dose is an initial higher dose of a medication that may be given at the beginning of a course of treatment before dropping down to a lower maintenance dose. The main goal of a loading dose is to achieve a therapeutic level at a quicker rate, thereby resulting in attaining the desired effect.
The frequency of your infusion therapy will be determined by your physician. Infusions can be given at variable intervals. The most significant factor determining the frequency of your infusions is the medication prescribed by your provider.
Side effects can develop with infusion therapy just as they could when taking any new medications. An allergic reaction may appear as a rash, feeling itchy, watery eyes, and/or difficulty breathing. Our team at Flomed, consisting of physicians and experienced nurses, will be monitoring you throughout your infusion. All of our clinical staff are highly trained in infusion therapy and able to manage a reaction should one occur.
Unless told otherwise by your physician, take your daily medications before treatment. Drinking plenty of water and staying well hydrated makes it easier to start your IV. Prior to your treatment, avoid eating food/drinks or activities that may cause dehydration (coffee, salty foods, heavy exercise). Dress comfortably to ensure your visit is relaxing as possible. This also makes it easier for nurses to check vital signs and start your IV or give an injection.
Infusion therapy is typically not painful. You may feel a slight pinch when the IV is initially inserted, but once the cannula is in, there is generally no pain. Some patients state they don’t feel anything at all. Flomed prefers to use 24-gauge IV catheters.
Yes, you are able to drive to and from your infusion.
It is best to discuss this with your physician prior to beginning treatment. If there is any chance you could be pregnant before beginning treatment or during the course of treatment, please notify your physician and Flomed. This will allow your physician to determine the best treatment plan.
Flomed is dedicated to your comfort. You will relax in a comfortable recliner with optional heat and massage features. Flomed provides pillows, blankets, and sleep masks to enhance your comfort. Complimentary snacks and drinks are available, and you’re welcome to bring your own food and beverages if you prefer.
Yes, we have a bathroom located in our infusion suite. There are also additional restrooms conveniently located nearby if needed.
Our caring team at Flomed knows that support is very important for our patients. We are highly committed to the safety of all of our patients as well as their privacy. We limit visitors to one adult per patient. At the discretion of our clinical staff, visitors may be able to join you during your infusion or wait comfortably in our lobby.