NHIA develops drug list 

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – The National Home Infusion Association has developed a list of medications to serve as a reference when making site of care decisions for patients requiring intravenous or subcutaneous infusions. The list reflects current U.S. prescribing practices and was compiled from medication dispensing reports from home infusion providers and reviewed by NHIA’s Quality and Standards Committee. “Home infusion providers have special expertise in the assessment, coordination and provision of professional services required to safely furnish infused medications in the home and alternate settings,” says NHIA President and CEO Connie Sullivan, BSPharm. “This list can be helpful as they work through the multitude of variables that factor into their decision making.” The list also identifies which drugs may qualify for coverage under Medicare Part B DMEPOS or Local A/B MAC policies, which have specific criteria for eligibility. Unlike commercial plans, Medicaid programs and other government payers (e.g., TRICARE), Medicare does not offer a comprehensive home infusion benefit; however, a handful of drugs are covered under Part B. The Medicare prescription drug benefit, Part D, covers additional therapies, but none of the supplies and services associated with administration. In addition to clinicians and reimbursement professionals, the list may be useful for other home infusion industry stakeholders, payers, regulators and policymakers. NHIA intends to update the list as new products are approved, as well as when new data supports moving a drug onto the list. To submit updates, send a message to info@nhia.org.