Patient Perceptions and Experiences with Sites of Care (SOCs) Among Patients with Immunology Conditions Currently Using Intravenous (IV) Biologic Therapy

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate patient perceptions, satisfaction, and experiences, by SOC, among patients with immunology conditions currently treated with an IV biologic medication. Methods: Semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with 405 patients. SOC was categorized as: rheumatologist in-office infusion (rheum IOI), gastroenterologist in-office infusion (gastro IOI), hospital outpatient department (HOPD), or infusion therapy provider (ITP). Patient experience with attributes of infusion centers were rated on 7-point Likert scales (1=Poor, 7=Excellent). Results: Of the 392 patients reporting SOC information, 154 (39.3%) received infusions in rheum IOI, 102 (26.0%) in gastro IOI, 111 (28.3%) in HOPD, and 25 (6.4%) in ITP. Rheum and gastro IOIs were more likely to receive high ratings for interaction with staff compared with HOPD. Gastro IOIs were the most likely to receive high ratings for waiting times compared to rheum IOIs and HOPD, though waiting time was still more highly rated in rheum IOIs than HOPD. HOPDs were least likely to receive high ratings for ease of parking, waiting time, interaction with staff, and expertise of staff. ITPs were most likely to receive high ratings for convenient scheduling of infusions, though sample size is limited.Table: Patient ratings (6 or 7 on 7-point scale) of attributes of infusion centers by SOCConclusion: Patient experience with specific attributes of infusion centers significantly differ by SOC. Therefore patient perceptions and experiences may be considered in choice of SOC. Disclosure: SC Bolge, J Vanderpoel, H Eldridge, SH Mody, JH Lofland, MP Ingham: All employees of Centocor Ortho Biotech Services, LLC. This research was supported by an industry grant from This study was sponsored by Centocor Ortho Biotech Services, LLC.