Shortened infusion protocol a game changer for MS patients at Monash Health

Monash Health’s infusion centre has successfully implemented evidence-based changes to some of our multiple sclerosis (MS) patients’ treatments, reducing therapy duration from 5.5 hours to 2 hours, saving patients 3.5 hours spent in hospital.  
 
MS is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, leading to a range of neurological symptoms and disabilities. Ocrelizumab is one of the therapies that can be used in the treatment of the disease, helping slow down progression and reduce relapses.  
 
Following a review that Ocrelizumab can safely be infused over a shorter time for eligible patients, Dr. Nevin John, Head of MS Service, and Eden De Asis, MS Clinical Nurse Consultant, led an initiative to implement the changes at Monash Health to enhance our service delivery and patient care. 
 
“The implementation of the shortened infusion protocol for Ocrelizumab has been a game changer for both our patients and staff. The reduced time commitment without compromising safety has made a profound difference in our service delivery,” said Eden De Asis, MS Clinical Nurse Consultant. 
 
Importantly, the reduced infusion duration has provided a better patient experience in the clinic. 
 
“Patients were thrilled with the shorter infusion times, allowing them to spend less time in hospital, and more time in their day to take care of other activities, whether that be their work or time spent with family and friends.”