Cost-effectiveness issues for home i.v. therapy in the United States.

The popularity of home infusion therapy is increasing as it becomes recognized as a cost-effective alternative to hospitalization with the added benefit of improving patient quality of life. Selection of appropriate candidates for home i.v. therapy requires consideration of many variables pertaining to the medical and psychosocial suitability of the patient. Innovations in drug delivery devices have created opportunities for patients to receive parenteral therapy at home who would otherwise be considered inappropriate candidates for this treatment option. The cost of providing home IV therapy is mainly attributable to pharmacy and nursing services. Other contributing cost factors include the expense of ancillary supplies, supply delivery and management, and those costs created by administrative and regulatory requirements. When appropriately managed, home administration of IV medications can be a cost-effective way of delivering safe, effective, and quality care to an increasing population of patients.