Hours Are By Appointment Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Our Center
Infusion therapy is performed when a patient does not respond well to other conventional treatment methods such as oral medications and suppositories. It is particularly beneficial for patients with moderate to severe Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
The IBD infusion procedure:
- Greatly reduces IBD symptoms
- Reduces inflammation
- Heals fistulae (abnormal communication between the bowel and adjacent organs)
- Prevents complications of IBD that can lead to surgery and hospitalizations
Our Staff
We understand the challenges, both physical and emotional, that affect every infusion patient and their loved ones. That is why our team of experienced registered nurses are available to provide information and answer questions.
Our Services
Our Infusion Center performs more than 2,500 outpatient services a year for patients suffering with inflammatory bowel disease. Our goal is to ensure the comfort of the patient during their IBD infusion procedure. Our facility offers:
- The latest advancements in infusion medication
- Nationally and regionally recognized experts who have extensive experience in all aspects of IBD treatment
- Comfortable chairs, pillows and blankets, well-lit treatment areas, television, Wi-Fi and snacks & beverages
- A relaxed environment with compassionate caregivers
- Monitoring of lab and test results and
- Monitoring of treatment plans with physicians
- Availability of our infusion team with rapid turn around of calls and messages.
The Infusion Center specializes in intravenous (IV) treatments. Services and treatments include:
- Medication Administration of Biologic therapies such as Remicade®, Entyvio®, Humira®, Tysabri®, and Cimzia®
- Implantable Port Care
- Administration of Intramuscular/ Sub-cutaneous Injections
To create an optimal care experience, our team also provides:
- Educational and instructional materials
- Updates to the primary physician
- Participation in ongoing reviews with our physicians to promote the best treatment outcomes
- Documentation in the form of treatment and utilization reports, progress notes, and nursing assessments.
Biologic Therapies for IBD Infusion
Biologic infusion therapies such as Remicade® are extremely useful for the treatment of IBD diseases. Remicade® consists of antibodies that block a naturally occurring substance in the body called TNF (Tumor Necrosis Factor). TNF is thought to cause the inflammation that produces IBD symptoms. Because Remicade® blocks TNF, it has been known to effectively control and relieve symptoms of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Other TNF-inhibiting medications include Humira®, Cimzia® and Tysabri®.
What to Expect During an Infusion Procedure
When a patient comes to the infusion center, they are met by a receptionist that directs them to a comfortable, private area where the infusion procedure will take place. A physician determines the right dose of medication to be given and expert clinicians prepare the medications to be infused. A medication may also be given to lessen side effects that could occur during the infusion procedure. An IV (an intravenous line) is placed in the patients arm and the medical staff administers the medication.
The infusion process takes up to 2 hours to complete. During the procedure, the nurse will monitor for side effects and to see how well a patient responds to treatment. In the event that side effects occur, the infusion process will be adjusted or stopped.
What to Expect After Infusion
After the infusion is complete, a clinician removes the patient’s IV, vital signs are checked and the patient may rest comfortably. Discharge instructions are given and carefully reviewed with the patient. Before leaving the infusion center, patients may arrange for future infusion appointments and make follow-up appointments with their gastroenterologist.
What to Expect In-Between Infusions
You will be asked to complete regular laboratory studies. The intent of the lab work is to monitor progress with the infusions and to check for side-effects. Lab work assists the physician in determining dosage and therapy plans. Our nursing staff will also check in with you between infusions to obtain information about your health status and advise you of upcoming treatments.