1. Planning
In the beginning, it is critical to understand the goals. The Health Center determined they needed a community partnership, one that understood the homecare setting and one that could be available for the needs of a new homecare initiative. The timeframe was developed, the boundaries were determined, and the responsibilities designed for a successful plan.
2. Gathering Information
To determine the best fit, one homecare agency was approached and evaluated for compatibility. Both agency and hospital work together in other endeavors and this would be a natural growth plan for both organizations. Meetings were held and supported to offer each the ability to learn how the other could make the new program a reality.
3. Preparing Necessary Documentation
The biggest hurtle was for the home care Agency. New policies and procedures would need to be drafted withing the Department of Public Health regulations for home care that would enable an Infusion Therapy program to run. Affinity for Alliance took this task, developed all the needed Polices, procedures and practices, with resources consistent with the Health Care Centers program goals.
4. Filing with Proper Agencies
Meetings then took place, with Affinity consulting oversite to share the program design, assure that all parties understood process and procedure and fine tune the steps to be put in place for the program to begin with limited goals, allowing for further evaluation and growth once a pilot plan could be put into place. All guidelines followed within the hospital’s regulatory bodies and the home care arena.
5. Results
Within the goals and timelines of UCONN Health and Farmington Valley VNA, Inc., the Infusion Therapy Home Care Program has been successfully developed. The start of the program is on target for starting within 2024 and both agencies are excited about their new partnership as both were able to provide innovative problem-solving solutions that will advance health care options while saving costs.