Question 1

What is Kirkland Specialty Infusion Center?

Accepted Answer

We are a physician-led, outpatient specialty infusion suite located in Kirkland, Washington, affiliated with Evergreen Rheumatology, one of the Pacific Northwest's most respected rheumatology practices, with more than two decades of specialty care. A licensed provider is present in the suite for every infusion, not nearby, not on call, but in the room.

Question 2

What is infusion therapy?

Accepted Answer

Infusion therapy delivers medication directly into your bloodstream through an intravenous (IV) line. It is used when a medication cannot be taken by mouth effectively, works better when delivered by IV, or needs to be given with close clinical monitoring for your safety.

Question 3

Why would my doctor refer me for infusion therapy?

Accepted Answer

Your physician may refer you for infusion therapy when: Your condition requires a biologic or specialty medication only available by IV Oral medications have not provided enough relief The medication requires monitoring during administration Faster or more reliable absorption is needed for your treatment to work Your doctor chose this because it is the right treatment for you, and we will make the experience as smooth as possible.

Question 4

What conditions and specialties does KSIC serve?

Accepted Answer

We welcome referrals from a wide range of specialties, including: Rheumatology (RA, psoriatic arthritis, lupus, gout, ankylosing spondylitis) Gastroenterology (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis) Dermatology Neurology & MS Osteoporosis & Metabolic Bone Disease Allergy & Immunology (IVIG) Inflammatory Eye Disease (uveitis, scleritis, thyroid eye disease)

Question 5

What medications does KSIC offer?

Accepted Answer

Our formulary includes more than 19 therapies. Some examples: Actemra, Benlysta, Cimzia, Cosentyx, Evenity, Ilaris, Ilumya, Krystexxa, Octagam (IVIG), Orencia, Pemgarda, Prolia, Remicade, Rituxan, Simponi Aria, Stelara, Tepezza, and others. Your physician will prescribe the right therapy for your diagnosis.

Question 6

How is Kirkland Specialty Infusion Center different from a hospital infusion suite?

Accepted Answer

Several meaningful ways: A physician is in the suite during every infusion, this is not the industry standard, it is ours Our suite is calm and private, not a busy hospital floor with rotating staff You will see the same faces visit after visit, staff who know your name, your treatment, and the small details that make your visit easier Our financial advocacy team pursues every available assistance program so cost is rarely the barrier We send a full clinical note back to your referring physician after every infusion

Question 7

Does KSIC accept my insurance?

Accepted Answer

We accept most major commercial insurance plans, Medicare, and many Medicare Advantage plans, including Premera Blue Cross, Regence BlueShield, Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, Kaiser Permanente PPO, and First Choice Health, among others. Call us with your insurance card in hand and we will give you a clear answer for your specific plan and medication before you commit to anything.

Question 8

Will my insurance cover my infusion therapy?

Accepted Answer

Most specialty infusion medications are covered by commercial insurance and Medicare. Our team handles the prior authorization process for you, including any appeals, peer-to-peer reviews, and supporting documentation. You should not need to call your insurance company yourself.

Question 9

What if I cannot afford the copay or out-of-pocket costs?

Accepted Answer

This is exactly what our financial advocacy team is here for. Before your first infusion, we will: Estimate your out-of-pocket costs in writing Apply for manufacturer copay assistance programs Apply for patient assistance programs (PAPs) when applicable Identify and apply for foundation grants from organizations like the HealthWell Foundation, Patient Advocate Foundation, and Good Days Many of our patients pay little or nothing out of pocket. Before you decline a treatment for financial reasons, please let us run the numbers.

Question 10

Do I need a referral to be seen?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Specialty infusion medications require a physician's prescription and referral. If your doctor has already referred you, our team will contact you within one to two business days of receiving that referral. If you believe you need infusion therapy but have not yet spoken to your doctor, please start there.

Question 11

What if my bill looks wrong?

Accepted Answer

Call us immediately at (425) 453-0766 ext. 105. We will review the charges with you and contact your insurance company on your behalf if needed. You will not have to navigate a billing dispute alone.

Question 12

What happens after my doctor sends a referral?

Accepted Answer

Once we receive your referral, a member of our team will call you within one to two business days. We will introduce ourselves, confirm your insurance, answer your initial questions, and schedule your first infusion at a time that works for you. We also handle prior authorization and work with your physician to confirm any required labs or screening before your first visit.

Question 13

How long will it take to get scheduled?

Accepted Answer

Scheduling timelines depend on insurance prior authorization, which varies by plan and medication. Our team manages this process for you and works to get you scheduled as quickly as approvals allow. We will keep you informed throughout.

Question 14

How often will I need to come in?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your medication. Some infusions are given every few weeks, others every few months. Your physician will outline the schedule, and our team will coordinate every appointment from there.

Question 15

How do I prepare for my infusion?

Accepted Answer

For most infusions, the preparation is simple: Eat a normal meal beforehand, unless your physician has told you otherwise Continue your regular medications unless specifically told to hold one Drink water and stay well hydrated Wear comfortable, loose clothing with easy access to one arm Bring something to keep you occupied, a book, tablet, headphones, or a show Bring your insurance card, a photo ID, and a list of current medications and supplements Arrive about 15 minutes before your scheduled time. Your care team will give you any medication-specific instructions before your appointment.

Question 16

What is a loading dose?

Accepted Answer

Some medications start with a loading phase, a higher or more frequent initial dose to help the medication reach a therapeutic level in your body more quickly. After the loading period, you transition to a regular maintenance schedule. Your care team will explain what to expect for your specific therapy.

Question 17

Will my infusion hurt?

Accepted Answer

The infusion itself is not painful. When your nurse places the IV catheter, you may feel a brief pinch, similar to having blood drawn. After that, the medication is delivered slowly and comfortably over a set period of time. Most patients read, watch something, or simply relax.

Question 18

How big is the needle?

Accepted Answer

Very small, comparable to those used in children's hospitals. Your nurse will take every care to make placement quick and comfortable.

Question 19

Where is the IV placed?

Accepted Answer

Typically in the arm. Your nurse will find the most comfortable and accessible site for you.

Question 20

How long does an infusion take?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the medication. Some infusions take 15 to 30 minutes; others take two to four hours. We will tell you exactly how long to expect when we schedule your appointment. Here are a few examples: Prolia: ~15 minutes Cimzia or Simponi Aria: 30-45 minutes Orencia or Benlysta: 45 min to 1.5 hours Remicade: ~2 hours Krystexxa: ~2 hours + 1-hour observation Rituxan or IVIG: 3-4+ hours

Question 21

Who will be supervising my infusion?

Accepted Answer

A licensed registered nurse will administer your infusion. A physician or supervising provider will be present in the suite throughout your visit, available for questions, concerns, or any clinical decisions that arise. This is not standard practice at most infusion centers. It is standard practice here.

Question 22

Can I use the restroom during my infusion?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Let your nurse know and the infusion can be paused. Depending on your medication, your nurse may assist you.

Question 23

Can I bring someone with me?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You are welcome to bring one companion. Just let us know in advance so we can accommodate.

Question 24

What if I have a reaction during my infusion?

Accepted Answer

Infusion reactions can occur, though they are uncommon. Because a physician is in the suite for every infusion, we are prepared to respond immediately. Your nurse monitors you throughout your visit, and our team is trained to manage reactions quickly and calmly. Your safety is why the physician is always on site.

Question 25

What are the possible side effects?

Accepted Answer

Side effects vary by medication. Common ones may include: Fatigue or mild tiredness after the infusion Mild headache Nausea Brief discomfort at the IV site Mild infusion-related reactions during administration Your care team will review the risks specific to your medication before you begin and will monitor you closely throughout your visit.

Question 26

Can I drive myself home?

Accepted Answer

Most patients drive themselves home without any difficulty. Your physician will let you know if there are any restrictions based on your specific medication. If you are receiving a medication that may cause drowsiness for the first few visits, we recommend having someone with you.

Question 27

What happens after my infusion is done?

Accepted Answer

We will remove your IV, check your vital signs one final time, and review any aftercare instructions specific to your medication. We will also schedule your next appointment before you leave. We then send a full clinical note to your referring physician's office confirming that you received your medication, how you tolerated it, and when you are scheduled next. Your physician will know everything that happened during your visit.

Question 28

What if I feel unwell after I get home?

Accepted Answer

Call us at (425) 453-0766 ext. 105. For any medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. We also provide a nurse check-in call after your first infusion, so someone from our team will already be in touch.

Question 29

What if I need to cancel or reschedule?

Accepted Answer

Please give us as much notice as possible, ideally 24 hours or more. This allows us to offer your slot to another patient and avoids the significant preparation work (nurse scheduling, insurance authorization, medication preparation) that happens in advance of every appointment. Call us at (425) 453-0766 ext. 105 and we will find a new time that works for you.

Clear Answers, Every Step of the Way

About Kirkland Specialty Infusion Center

Helping You Understand Your Coverage

From referral to your first appointment

How to prepare for your infusion

What to expect during treatment

Aftercare and follow-up