Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Welcomes Local Infusion to Network, Making Affordable Infusion Therapy More Accessible in Maine
March 06, 2023
Anthem members can soon receive in-network medication IV therapy at outpatient locations in Augusta and South Portland
SOUTH PORTLAND, MAINE — Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Maine recently welcomed Local Infusion, an outpatient infusion therapy provider, to its care provider network as part of its ongoing work to expand access to affordable healthcare in the state.
Local Infusion offers infusion therapy (medication delivered through an IV) for a range of chronic conditions such as Crohn’s disease, gout, inflammatory bowel disease, multiple sclerosis, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid eye disease, and many others. Local Infusion is opening a location in Augusta March 22 and one in South Portland in April.
“Our claims data shows drug infusions delivered in a hospital are often two to three times more expensive than infusions done in an independent infusion center, which drives costs higher for everyone,” said Denise McDonough, president of Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Maine. “Our partnership with Local Infusion is another example of our commitment to bringing new, high-quality, and affordable care options to the state, making this type of care more accessible for Mainers.”
“We’re excited to be opening our first two locations in Augusta and South Portland, Maine, with more to come. Infusions represent one of the highest growth drivers in healthcare spend today. We are fixing that with our innovative care model that saves plans and employers an average of $40k per patient per year, while also boasting industry leading patient satisfaction scores -- our average Patient NPS is 92, vs broader healthcare industry's 58,” said Woody Baum, Founder & CEO of Local Infusion. “With night and weekend appointments and beautiful private infusion suites, we make it easy for patients to choose the most affordable setting.”
Local Infusion offers private suites, a dedicated infusion guide to assist patients with scheduling and financial guidance, flexible hours, convenient parking, and other amenities. Care is provided by on-site nurse practitioners. For more information about Local Infusion, visit mylocalinfusion.com.
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About Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Maine
Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield is the trade name of Anthem Health Plans of Maine, Inc., an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. ®ANTHEM is a registered trademark of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc. The Blue Cross and Blue Shield names and symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. Additional information about Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Maine is available at www.anthem.com. Also, follow us on Twitter at @AnthemBCBS_News and @AnthemBCBS or find us on Facebook.
About Local Infusion
Local Infusion is setting a new standard for infusion therapy—because patients deserve better. It aims to improve outcomes for patients, save time for physicians and make it all more affordable for everyone involved. Through a blend of human-centered design and a people-first culture, Local Infusion puts the "local feel" of community, comfort and connection back into the patient and provider experience. Local Infusion operates in the Northeast U.S., with the goal of improving patient care and outcomes, while saving time and lowering costs for patients, physicians and payers. To learn more, visit mylocalinfusion.com.
