5 Ways Infusion Therapy Options Are Failing Your Employees

Patients today are more informed and have higher expectations for their healthcare experiences. They demand—and deserve—convenience, respect and personalized care. Yet many infusion therapy practices are woefully outdated, creating a cascade of problems for your employees and, consequently, your business. It’s time to face the stark truth: these archaic practices are not just inconvenient—they are actively sabotaging employee productivity, morale and mental health. Here’s a look at the top five ways that current infusion therapy practices are failing and what we can do to turn the tide.

Imagine this very real scenario: your employee has to travel a long distance to reach a hospital or clinic on a monthly or even weekly basis, only to spend long stretches of time in a waiting room. This isn’t just a minor inconvenience; it’s a major drain on productivity and morale. The solution isn’t simply building more infusion centers; while modern facilities typically offer an improved patient experience they still present logistical challenges and potential bottlenecks. Instead, decentralizing care and incorporating home infusions can provide a more flexible, patient-centered approach that reduces travel and eliminates wait times.

Time is a precious commodity. When employees have to spend long hours away from their families for infusion treatments, it eats into their personal time and adds to stress that can lead to burnout and even greater physical and mental health issues. It’s not just about the hours lost; it’s about the quality of life that’s diminished. Employees need a flexible, patient-centered infusion practice that respects their time, allowing them to receive necessary treatments without sacrificing their personal lives and well-being.

Many infusion therapy practices still rely on outdated, manual operations, creating a frustrating and inefficient experience for patients. Without patient self-scheduling capabilities, the process often involves cumbersome phone calls, paperwork, and coordination that can lead to errors andself- miscommunications. These manual processes can result in wait times of up to a month for treatment, leaving patients feeling helpless and anxious. A more modern approach incorporates technology that allows patients to schedule their treatments conveniently, reducing wait times and improving overall satisfaction.

Timely and coordinated infusion care is crucial. However, many infusion centers offer no after-hours support and lack proper care coordination, often resulting in deferred care, non-adherence to treatment plans and increased healthcare costs. Employees need access to support 24/7, including prior authorization assistance, appointment scheduling, clinical support and education. A dedicated care team that guides employees through every step of the process can make a significant difference in their treatment adherence and overall health.

In today’s consumer-driven world, patients expect to be treated with the same level of service and respect they receive in other areas of their lives. Yet, infusion therapy patients often feel like they’re just another number in a long line (nurses are frequently managing up to three or four patients simultaneously), and the lack of empathetic, personalized attention can exacerbate the emotional and physical burdens they already face, leading to dissatisfaction and non-adherence to treatment plans. In-home infusion therapy significantly enhances the consumer experience by providing convenience, personalized attention, reduced infection risk and improved quality of life.

A Better Way: Home Infusions

When infusion therapy practices fail employees, the consequences ripple through your organization. It’s time for employers to recognize the shortcomings of traditional infusion therapy practices and embrace innovative solutions that prioritize employee well-being and productivity. Home infusions and dedicated care teams are the future of infusion therapy, offering a more efficient, effective and patient-centered approach. By making this shift, employers can improve health outcomes, enhance productivity, and ultimately create a happier, healthier workforce.