Home versus outpatient hospital intravenous immunoglobulin infusion and health care resource utilization

Home health care delivery is projected to increase. Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy has high potential to move from the outpatient hospital (OPH) setting to home delivery. This study examined the relationship between home and OPH IVIG infusions and health care utilization. Our findings suggest there may be value to increasing referrals for IVIG home infusion. Decreased health care utilization provides value to the system in cost savings and to patients and families owing to less disruption and improved clinical outcomes. Further study can help inform health policy designed to maximize the benefits of IVIG home infusion while minimizing potential risks.