A large university medical center delivery system for therapeutic apheresis services

Abstract

The clinical applications of therapeutic apheresis (TA) encompass a broad spectrum. Diversity exists not only in the age and acuity of patients treated, but also in the range of therapeutic approaches and technology. Particularly over the past decade, there has been rapid expansion of TA for primary, adjuvant, and empiric therapies for myriad clinical settings. Recognizing this context, it is not surprising that a variety of delivery models for providing TA services have emerged. In this paper, the structure of an apheresis service at a large academic university hospital will be described to illustrate one example of an effective apheresis delivery model. Alternatives to this delivery model are certainly possible. The discussion will also indicate where some organizational variations may occur within this category of facility.