INDICATIONS FOR HOME INTRAVENOUS ANTIBIOTIC-THERAPY IN THE NETHERLANDS

Advances in technology, such as new antimicrobial drugs and new equipm ent, have led to an increased interest in home intravenous antibiotic therapy (HIVAT) in The Netherlands. The aim of this study was to evalu ate HIVAT in terms of costs, effectiveness and patient experience. Sev enty-five patients with an infectious disease were treated by a transm ural intravenous antibiotic therapy (TIVAT) programme at home for appr oximately 2000 days. An individual protocol and training was given to each patient and the care givers so that patients could perform the ho me treatment themselves with, in most cases, the help of family and fr iends. Optimal use was made of existing health care structures like ho spital facilities, pharmacies and the general practitioner. TIVAT is a n example of intensive home care. Preliminary data show that it seems safe, effective and cost-efficient with positive patient experiences. A once-daily dosage regimen of the antimicrobial agent was preferable.