How The Expanding Influence Of Nurses In The Home-Based Infusion Industry Is Widening The Reach Of Healthcare Options
- Feb 12, 2024
- 3 min read
Written by: Shelley DiAngelo, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
In the ever-evolving healthcare landscape, the once-unrivaled supremacy of traditional medicine is facing a noteworthy shift. This transition is not merely a trend but a profound transformation, particularly marked by the growing recognition of complementary alternative medicine (CAM) and holistic approaches. At the forefront of this shift is the escalating importance of community-based CAM, drawing attention to the role of intravenous (IV) vitamin infusions as instrumental tools for health restoration.
As we navigate this changing terrain, the conventional hierarchy of medical practitioners, where doctors are revered as the epitome of highly skilled and accredited professionals, is being scrutinized. A burgeoning awareness of CAM within progressive circles challenges the longstanding exclusivity of traditional medicine. Consequently, skepticism about the efficacy and application of CAM within the healthcare system has become more palpable.
Intriguingly, a notable aspect of this shift is the surge in home-based IV infusions, a practice demanding state licensure and medical training. Despite meeting these rigorous standards, these interventions are often perceived as alternative health measures rather than orthodox medicine. When in truth, prescribed daily in staggering numbers by doctors in hospitals are these almost identical infusions.
A catalyst in this healthcare evolution is the dynamic involvement of nurses, forming the fastest-growing sector in delivering IV infusions. This comes at a time when nurses, impacted the post-COVID "great resignation” by redefining their roles by venturing into entrepreneurial endeavors. Establishing concierge infusion businesses, nurses navigate state-specific requirements while ensuring a supervising medical doctor oversees IV administrations.
Nurse-run holistic and medical clinics became inevitable
Why the surge in nurse-owned infusion businesses? Julia Akinyooye RN MSN, the Chief Operating Officer at Emmanuel Consulting Agency Inc says, “I think there was already a high percentage of burnout, over-whelm and dissatisfaction (40%) in the nursing workforce and this percentage was exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic. In the past few years, nurses felt the healthcare systems did not have their back and support them. Also, half of nurses are over the age of 50 and have a tremendous accumulation of knowledge and experience. Nurse entrepreneurship provides different ways to have more autonomy, creative expression, and control over their work and finances.”
And in following nurses to the entrepreneurial life we see the infusion industry's burgeoning success has sparked a trend where doctors actively endorse prescription orders for clients, further bridging the gap between medical professionals and holistic care providers. In response to the demand, MD-led companies are surfacing across the nation, offering premium memberships to nurses seeking medical oversight. This paradigm shift challenges those with conventional perceptions and underlines the symbiotic relationship between these healthcare professionals.
Nurses, renowned for cultivating deep connections with patients, are now extending their expertise to clients in their newfound roles. Nurse-client relationships are characterized by enduring trust and understanding, a stark contrast to the often transient interactions patients have with doctors, whether in hospitals or home visits.
Interest grows as infusion demand soars
The surging interest in community-based infusion services has not gone unnoticed by medical professionals. And coupled with the financial success of this industry, we may see contemplation about potential involvement from medical insurances. This shift signals not just a change in healthcare dynamics but a comprehensive restructuring of the industry's financial landscape.
In essence, nurses, equipped with diverse skills, are pioneers in this healthcare evolution. Consider the invaluable benefits of establishing a lasting relationship with a nurse expert who places your health goals at the forefront. This personalized care extends beyond traditional settings, reaching you at home, in the office, or by the poolside—reflecting a new era in dynamic healthcare experience not confined to hospitals.
Shelley DiAngelo, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Shelley DiAngelo is committed to helping reduce the cost of chronic disease and increase the quality and longevity of life from individuals to corporate America with using holistic health options. She specializes in obesity, type 2 diabetes, and internal health and anti-aging from a cellular perspective. With her extensive professional background and many accolades garnered over the years for her substantial contributions to the enhancement and safety of patient care, she has a strong foundation from which to impart her experience as a speaker and educator.
