Do I have to pay up-front  for supplies or equipment?  Will my insurance cover this?
I'm not sure about what or how much to order. How do I find out before I place my order?
Is the cost of shipping billed to me?
Do I need to fill out any claim forms?
What is the difference between a PICC line and a midline?
Can I use the arm that has anplaced PICC or midline?  
How often should my nurse replace my IV?
What should I do with the used syringes and IV bags?

Q: Do I have to pay up-front  for supplies or equipment?  Will my insurance cover this?
A: Depending on insurance coverage, there may be no up-front cost to you. Any co-pay will be collected at time of delivery.

Q: I'm not sure about what or how much to order. How do I find out before I place my order?
A: Our friendly customer service representatives with check with you to ensure you have the right amount of supplies and/or the correct equipment. to order.

 
Q:  Is the cost of shipping billed to me?
A: There is no additional shipping cost for home delivery.

Q: Do I need to fill out any claim forms?
A: We will complete all the necessary paperwork for you. We will file your Medicare and/or secondary insurance claims.

Q: What is the difference between a PICC line and a midline?
A: A midline is 3 to 8 inches long and is usually inserted in or near the bend of the arm; the tip of the catheter should end before the shoulder. This type of catheter does not require an X-ray after insertion and can be used for most antibiotics and other therapies lasting two to four weeks.

A PICC line, or peripherally inserted central catheter, is also inserted in or near the bend of the arm, but its tip goes past the shoulder and stops just outside the heart. A PICC requires a chest X-ray after insertion to make sure that the tip is in the correct place. This type of catheter can be inserted by a nurse or a doctor, either at the doctor's office or another place that has easy access to an X-ray facility.  

PICCs can remain in place for a year and sometimes longer without complication. There is no maximum time that they can remain inserted, as long as there are no complications with the insertion site or the catheter itself. They are used for TPN (or total parenteral nutrition, a very rich liquid nutrient), IV antibiotics that can be irritating to the inside of a small vein, chemotherapy, and any other therapies lasting longer than four weeks.

Q: Can I use the arm that has anplaced PICC or midline?  
A: Yes. Using the arm that has an IV catheter inserted helps increase the circulation in that arm. This will not only carry the medicine you are receiving through the rest of your bloodstream, but can keep your IV site healthier by preventing blood and other fluids from collecting in that arm. Do not perform strenuous, repetitive arm-bending activities if your IV is inserted in the bend of your arm. This may cause the IV to work its way out. These types of activities might include shoveling snow, golf, heavy lifting and vacuuming for an extended period of time. 

Q: How often should my nurse replace my IV?
A: If your IV is 3 inches long or shorter, it should not be left in for longer than seven days. This type of IV is referred to as a peripheral IV and will usually be changed every three to seven days. It should be changed at the first sign of any complications, such as redness, pain or drainage. If you notice any of these, call your home health nurse for direction. 

Q: What should I do with the used syringes and IV bags?
A: Your nurse should instruct you on how to properly dispose of your medical waste at the beginning of your home IV therapy. The instructions will depend on what kind of medication you are receiving, whether you are using needles, and local and state laws.