Operational Shifts: IV to Subcutaneous

EP: 1.The Shifting to Subcutaneous Oncology: Recent FDA Approvals

EP: 2.Subcutaneous Value: Efficiency and Access

EP: 3.Workflow Wins: Scheduling and Pharmacy Impact

EP: 4.IV vs Subcutaneous: Clinical Considerations

EP: 5.Reimbursement Realities: Billing for Subcutaneous

EP: 6.Implementing Subcutaneous Without Disruption

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EP: 7.Operational Shifts: IV to Subcutaneous

EP: 8.Staffing and Scheduling for Subcutaneous

When integrating SubQ therapies into oncology practice, the first step is conducting a thorough economic evaluation. This includes analyzing drug costs, reimbursement structures, and payer coverage to ensure financial viability. Since clinical effectiveness is typically comparable between SubQ and intravenous (IV) options, understanding the economic landscape helps determine whether adopting a SubQ product makes sense for the practice. A detailed payer analysis is critical to assess what percentage of patients will have coverage, which directly impacts the feasibility of widespread implementation.

Education and communication across the entire care team are essential operational considerations. Pharmacy teams need to understand new preparation and storage requirements, while nurses and physicians must be informed about administration protocols and patient management. Including patient advocates can facilitate better guidance for physicians when selecting therapies, especially since practices often establish a preference for either IV or SubQ formulations. Pharmacists can play a crucial role in counseling patients, particularly when switching from an IV to a SubQ therapy. Engaging patients in clear, accessible conversations about the efficacy and safety of SubQ treatments helps alleviate concerns and supports smoother transitions.

Lastly, integrating SubQ therapies requires thoughtful workflow adjustments but can largely fit within existing practice structures. The process involves continuous communication among nursing, pharmacy, physicians, and patient advocates to keep everyone aligned on treatment plans and patient status. Early experiences with transitioning patients to SubQ formulations highlight benefits beyond economics, including improved patient satisfaction and streamlined clinical operations. Looking ahead, increasing SubQ options, including potential reformulations of chemotherapies, may further transform oncology care, emphasizing convenience, tolerability, and operational efficiency.