2 new IVX Health outpatient infusion centers open in Florida

MS, other autoimmune patients now can get care at 23 sites in state

by Mary Chapman | May 30, 2023

More treatment centers for people with autoimmune disorders such as multiple sclerosis (MS) are now available in Florida, as IVX Health expands its footprint across the state with the addition of two outpatient infusion and injection centers in the Fort Lauderdale area.

With the new locations in Pembroke Pines and east Fort Lauderdale, the Tennessee-based provider now has 23 centers in Florida, with plans for further expansion in the state later this year.

Additional centers mean easier and more convenient access to biologic treatments for diseases that include MS, according to IVX Health.

"IVX Health is proud to continue expanding access across the state of Florida to provide patients with the highest level of clinical quality and service," Doug Ghertner, CEO of IVX Health, said in a company press release.

"These new centers will offer patients with autoimmune disorders such as Crohn's disease, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other conditions a truly unique and patient-first care experience," Ghertner said.

Every IVX Health center offers flexible appointment scheduling — including evenings and weekends, according to the company. The sites have TVs with streaming options, high-speed Wi-Fi, leather recliners, and private suites. Chairs and complimentary snacks are available for guests.

To help ensure proper care, the centers are staffed with registered nurses as well as nurse practitioners, and tout a 1 to 3 nurse-to-patient ratio. The centers run according to a clinical model that employs protocols and safety standards similar to those in place in hospital settings.

IVX Health is partnering with Fort Lauderdale-area neurologists, rheumatologists, gastroenterologists and others to ensure that patients who need specialized care can receive it.

Typically, intravenous, or into-the-vein infusion therapies work faster than others because the medicine goes directly into the bloodstream. Infusions involve administering medication through a specialized pump, which drips into a catheter to a syringe, then through a hollow needle into the patient's bloodstream.

Available MS therapies at IVX Health centers include the CD20 inhibitors Ocrevus (ocrelizumab), Briumvi (ublituximab), and rituximab, which is used off-label in MS. Tysabri (natalizumab) and Lemtrada (alemtuzumab) also are offered.

"We understand the challenges that prior authorization, benefits eligibility, and other paperwork present to physicians and their staff, and we are here to help," said Sean Hutchison, regional vice president of IVX Florida, adding, "Our team works closely with providers to help facilitate these processes so that patients may receive the care they need as quickly and efficiently as possible."

Patients who have questions about available services may contact IVX Health. The company has more than 75 centers across the U.S. and roughly 60 treatments on its formulary. Treatment requires a provider referral.

In addition to MS, IVX centers treat immunocompromised patients with conditions that include Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, myasthenia gravis, lupus, Fabry disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.