Infusion Centers: An Alternative to the Rigors of the ER

One of the warriors on the got me thinking about infusion centers. I haven’t used them at all myself, but the discussion launched by Niki’s comment prompted me to do some research.

An infusion center is usually affiliated with your hematologist’s office, outpatient center, or sickle cell clinic.

The infusion center starts an IV, gives you fluids, IV pain meds and sometimes even blood to ward off a crises. Since the nurses deal with cancer patients (and chronic pain almost everyday), they tend to be more empathetic and compassionate.

Some infusion centers will allow you to come the same day you make an appointment. However, the bigger ones might have a higher flow of patients, a require an appointment sometimes days in advance. Many sickle cell patients stated that the infusion center really does help ward off a major crises. Treatment often begins within minutes of your arrival (no hourly wait times), and the center will follow your physician’s protocol and understand your unique requirements. If your situation worsens, or the crises doesn’t get better, they often can direct admit you to a unit in the hospital. SCADAA even recommends Day Hospitals (or infusion centers) over heading to the ED first.

To get set up with an Infusion center, ask your hematologist or primary care physician.