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Currently, many Independence members who receive infliximab
(Remicade®) do so in their physician's office, which
Independence recognizes as a cost-effective setting. However, some physicians
send their patients to an outpatient facility, where treatment costs may be
higher.
For physicians who do not administer in-office infusions, there are two
treatment options that may be more cost-effective than the outpatient facility:
freestanding infusion suites and home infusion providers. Freestanding
in-network infusion suites are becoming popular treatment sites for members to
receive infusion drugs like Remicade®. As a result, Walgreens is
reaching out to select network physicians whose Independence patients typically
receive Remicade® in an outpatient facility setting. Walgreens
will discuss the Walgreens Site of Care Optimization Program and highlight the
benefits of administering Remicade® in Walgreens infusion
suites.
Members who currently receive Remicade® in an outpatient
facility setting may also be able to have it administered in their home through
an Independence approved home infusion provider. Many members choose home
infusion therapy because they can coordinate their treatment based on their
schedule and receive treatment in the comfort and convenience of their own
home.
Over the next few months, Independence will send letters to our members to
educate them about these additional treatment options and the advantages in
terms of safety, convenience, and potentially lower out-of-pocket costs.
To learn more about options for the administration of
Remicade® in an infusion suite or the member's home, call
Customer Service
at 1-800-ASK-BLUE.
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