Highmark prioritizes home infusion

PITTSBURGH - Highmark will increase the ability of their members to receive home infusion starting Jan. 1. As part of a new site of care program from the health insurer's pharmacy team, members will be able to receive infusion therapies in their home, doctor's office or at an infusion site, pending a prior authorization process, instead of in a hospital outpatient setting. “By receiving infusion therapies at other sites, members can reduce transportation times, see more flexibility in their schedules and receive their treatment in a more comfortable and private environment,” said Sarah Marche, vice president, Pharmacy Services. “However, if a hospital setting is the appropriate option, a member's care will continue to be covered and uninterrupted.” Initially, the change will be applicable to fully insured commercial members in all regions of Highmark's core insurance markets, including Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Delaware, and national customers. Members taking advantage of alternative sites of care will be able to choose from a vast network of home infusion therapy providers.