ARJ Issue One finalV2 · infusion ARJ Infusion SERVICES A Publication of ARJ Infusion Services |...

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infusion ARJ Infusion SERVICES A Publication of ARJ Infusion Services | Summer 2015 REPORT Strike! When a rare disorder hit this bowling fan’s life, ARJ helped get her back to fine form e Unknown Crisis New insights on a neuromuscular disease that mirrors the symptoms of well-known diseases the ARJ Receives National Recognition It’s a

Transcript of ARJ Issue One finalV2 · infusion ARJ Infusion SERVICES A Publication of ARJ Infusion Services |...

Page 1: ARJ Issue One finalV2 · infusion ARJ Infusion SERVICES A Publication of ARJ Infusion Services | Summer 2015 REPORT Strike! When a rare disorder hit this bowling fan’s life, ARJ

infusion

ARJ InfusionSERVICES

A Publication of ARJ Infusion Services | Summer 2015

REPORT

Strike!When a rare disorder hit this bowling fan’s life, ARJ helped get her back to fi ne form

� e Unknown CrisisNew insights on a neuromuscular disease that mirrors the symptoms of well-known diseases

infusioninfusionthe

ARJ Receives

National Recognition

It’s a

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Bleeding Disorders

Enzyme Therapy

Immune Deficiencies

Specialty Injectables

Antibiotic Infusion

ARJ Infusion Services provides home infusion therapies for children and adults with acute and chronic disorders. Our expertise includes:

Bleeding disorders

Genetic disordersIV antibioticsAnd other complex conditions

We’re a woman-owned enterprise with more than 15 years of experience delivering specialty pharmacy and high-tech nursing services across the United States.

Home is your sanctuary.Home is where the heart is, but there’s a world of experiences waiting for you.

GeneticDisorders

arjinfusion.com(866) 451-8804

Give us a call today.We’re always happy to chat.

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summer 2015 | the infusion report | 1

ARJ EXECUTIVE TEAM

Lisa SackuvichPresident & Owner

Andy Copeland Vice President

& General Manager

Ron GerlingDirector of Information

Technology

Brett MartinDirector of Operations

Joshua McBrideDirector of Marketing & Communications

Ryan UlrichDirector of Sales

Edie WilliamsonDirector of Nursing

EDITORIAL MANAGEMENT

Joshua McBrideEditor

Jaime HoodContent Contributor

Katie Grigg Content Contributor

Ashley BlytheConsultant

Dave KimmisDesigner

ARJ InfusionSERVICES

2 Power to the Patient! The ARJ experience never looked so good

INFUSION & INSPIRATION

3 A Moment with Our CEO Celebrating 15 years in touching patients’ lives

FEATURE

4 It’s a Strike! When an extremely rare bleeding disorder

hit this young bowling fan’s life, ARJ helped get her back to � ne form

7 Patient Spotlight Board Independence is key for these � rst-time infusers

8 � e Unknown Crisis New insights on a neuromuscular disease that mirrors

the symptoms of well-known diseases

9 A True Trailblazer ARJ CEO receives national award in entrepreneurship

INDUSTRY & INNOVATIONS

10 Going the Distance All the facts on longer-lasting factor—and knowing what’s right for you

12 A Call to Duty Today’s caregivers are experiencing caregiver syndrome, and it’s not

going away

ARJ Infusion Services is a leader in specialty pharmacy and high-tech nursing services. We provide home infusion therapies for children and adults with acute and chronic conditions. Our expertise includes bleeding and neurological disorders, immune de� ciencies, genetic disorders, IV antibiotics, and other injectable medications.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE | SUMMER 2015

contentsARJ Infusion

SERVICES

� e Infusion Report is published by ARJ Infusion Services, Inc. Address correspondence to ARJ Marketing and Communications, 10049 Lakeview Ave., Lenexa, KS 66219. © 2015 ARJ Infusion Services. Material in this issue may not be reproduced in whole or in part without permission. Send address changes or mailing list removal requests to the address above, [email protected], or call (866) 451-8804. � is magazine is carefully reviewed by health experts before publication; it’s not meant to replace professional medical advice or service. ARJ Infusion Services, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Services are provided on a nondiscriminatory basis.

infusionREPORT

the

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2 | the infusion report | summer 2015

In 2014, we sent out hundreds of surveys to ARJ patients asking how we were doing. Th e survey focused on clinical care, safety, effi ciency, and patient compassion.

We scored a 99 percent ‘Above Satisfaction’ grade with our patients, and we couldn’t be prouder of

all the people that make ARJ a winning team. “Th e collaboration and dedication our teams of clinicians and professionals provide every day is

truly outstanding,” said Lisa Sackuvich, president and owner of ARJ. “My number one priority is the care and customer service we provide to each patient and family.”

We’re always going to strive to be the best infusion provider in the U.S. Th e

feedback we receive is not just numbers to us; it represents real people—members of diff erent communities we serve across the United States.

By receiving patients’ perspective on how we’re doing, we’re able to focus on improving performance and enhancing our services and programs.

It’s because of our patients that we’re able to do what we do every day.

Power to the Patient!The ARJ experience never looked so good

Our belief is every patient experience matters. We provide our high-touch care in many ways:

by having a nurse come to your home; delivering medication to your doorstep; and by

involving you, the patient, in every step we take. We want every interaction to be positive—

even the small ones.

“ARJ has been wonderful! Our son has been getting weekly infusions since he was four weeks old. Being at home has made our lives so much easier, laid back, and without constant worry of hospital stay or infection.” — Sam Y.

“Great service…the entire company has been great to work with!” — Chelsea M.

“Very pleased. great care, service, and the nurses were exceptionally helpful.” — Michelle Y.

“Fabulous patient care!” — Brett C.

“You all do an outstanding job.” — Kari A.

“I have had nothing, but positive communications with all sta� at ARJ.” — David H.

We asked to hear from our patients, and they had a lot to say.

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summer 2015 | the infusion report | 3

Celebrating 15 Years of Touching Patients’ Lives

We know summer is offi cially here because the days are getting hot, hot, hot! And we also know summer doesn’t travel solo, as we’ve witnessed with the many severe storms ripping across the Midwest. Our ARJ team has paid extra attention to patients and their families who’ve been affected by fl oods and

storms this season. We assure you we’ll continue to monitor the weather and take special precautions in the event that medication delivery becomes impacted by the storms.

15 Years of ExcellenceNow I’d like to take time to share a bit of uplifting news: May marked an exciting milestone for our organization. After 15 years, we’re still here, moving forward with our original vision: To make each patient’s infusion experience excellent. As the founder and owner of ARJ, it’s been a dream come true to see children and adults lead healthier lives knowing they receive the best infusion care possible.

Continuum of CareARJ continues to deliver our multidisciplinary services to patients for as long as they need. Our services touch nearly the entire United States, and it’s been a truly remarkable experience to see our expansion thrive. Our award-winning team of certifi ed infusion nurses and specialty pharmacists are proud to deliver hands-on, customized care to everyone we see.

Turning the PageNothing can stay the same forever. And as we continue to grow, it becomes increasingly important to stay in touch with all of you. To make this connection possible, we’re launching a new and improved Infusion Report magazine as a way to commemorate our 15th year in business. I’d like to extend a special thank you to our marketing team for championing our vision of an expanded magazine that features inspiring stories and valuable information for patients. We hope you like what you see.

Pledging Our LoveLooking back to 2000 when we fi rst started this crazy idea, we made a pledge to give back to the patient organizations we serve. And 15 years later, this pledge is still alive today. We’re proud to acknowledge the ARJ team has given back to the community through charitable gifts and volunteer efforts that support and raise awareness for the incredible work our partners in nonprofi t organizations and advocacy groups do on a local, national, and global scale.

Our team appreciates the trust and loyalty you give us, and for allowing us to provide care and treatment for you in your home.

From the entire team at ARJ, we wish you and your family a safe, fun-fi lled summer!

Respectfully,

Lisa Sackuvich, RN, BSN, CRNIOwner & President

ARJ InfusionSERVICES

INFUSION & INSPIRATION | A MOMENT WITH OUR CEO

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Shane and Janet knew something was wrong, but time aft er time, medical professionals insisted Jadynn was healthy. “It was frustrating not knowing what to do. No one had answers for us,” said Janet. “Not even the doctors.”

No time to spareAs Jadynn’s health declined, her parents’ concern grew. Shane and Janet struggled with the feeling that their daughter’s illness was spinning out of control. But as scared as they felt, the family was certain of one thing: Th ey must keep the ball rolling in order to pinpoint a successful treatment for Jadynn.

Shane and Janet sought the opinions of countless specialists, and each one off ered a diff erent prognosis for Jadynn’s frequent bleeding episodes. Each possible lead would fade faster than the last. “Everyone was frustrated,” said Janet. “Our doctors had no idea. Th ey had never seen anything like this before.”

Nothing could prepare the family for the unthinkable outcome that awaited them.

Leave no pin standingDays turned into weeks as doctors conducted tests. Jadynn was feeling the eff ects of all her visits to the hospital. Th e numerous blood draws were also taking a toll—during this time, she had more than 17 blood

samples drawn.

But then one aft ernoon, aft er exploring scores of possibilities, the family landed a lucky break—an actual diagnosis.

Aft er all the pain and tears, Jadynn’s care team identifi ed her condition—an unimaginable con-clusion they weren’t ready for.

Th e condition was recognized as combined factor V defi ciency (Owren’s disease or parahemophilia) and factor VIII (hemophilia A). Th ese inherited bleeding disorders occur when one or several clotting factors are missing or not working correctly. Th e combination of these two conditions is rare, but

what makes it even more unlikely is that Jadynn is female—while many women are carriers of the genetic disorder, it is unusual for women to experience symptoms of the disease.

Strangely, Jadynn’s family didn’t have a history of hemophilia, which is uncommon in bleeding disorder patients. But Shane and Janet were comforted by the diagnosis nonetheless. Aft er all, if they were

armed with knowledge about her condition, they could devise a game-winning strategy to minimize Jadynn’s symptoms and improve her overall health.

Jadynn’s is one of the only known cases in the United States. Information is still

As a parent, you know when something isn’t right. Call it intuition or good old-fashioned parental

insight, but Shane and Janet always had an uneasy feeling their daughter Jadynn’s health wasn’t

where it needed to be.

“This had been going on with Jadynn since she was a year old,” said Janet of her daughter,

who is now an 11-year-old avid bowler and devoted animal lover. “She had severe

nose bleeds and bruising in her arms and legs, along with emotional distress

associated with each episode.”

“Our doctors had no idea. Th ey had never

seen anything like this before.”

It’s a Strike!When an extremely rare bleeding disorder hit this bowling fan’s life, ARJ helped get her back to fi ne form

FEATURE

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summer 2015 | the infusion report | 5

limited, but continues to be researched worldwide. “You have a better chance at winning the lottery,” said Shane. “We once again found ourselves not knowing what to do next.”

ARJ for the winAfter learning Jadynn’s diagnosis, the family discovered another hurdle they weren’t sure how to face: infusions.

Over the years, Jadynn was prescribed medications she didn’t need due to her previous misdiagnosis, but she had never once been administered an infusion. “We really had no idea where to begin,” said Shane. “Not only did we have to figure out how to do all this, but now we have to start letting people into our home to take care of our child.”

But in early 2014, a trusted source recommended ARJ and it changed their lives. Nurses and pharmacists quickly stepped in to form a winning treatment plan the entire family could feel good about.

Shane and Janet had strong feelings that all four

members of their family, including son Kasey, who was 6-years-old at the time, should be involved in Jadynn’s new treatment plan.

Jadynn initially refused treatment and was exasperated at the idea of infusion becoming a regular part of her life. “I just want to be a normal kid,” she would say. “I don’t want to infuse.”

An unlikely friendshipWith so many nursing visits to the home, a friendship started to blossom, along with a routine that provided comfort to the family. A typical week would include up to three home visits, with each infusion

lasting no more than two hours.

The young patient who once refused to accept this as a new part of her life began to develop strong friendships and a sense of calm when her ARJ care team came to visit.

ARJ is known for its high customer satisfaction ratings and high-touch care. “We feel involved, and having a routine helps reduce Jadynn’s anxiety by

Nothing can stop her | Even after being diagnosed with an extremely rare bleeding disorder, Jadynn is ready to roll, thanks to the expert care she receives from her ARJ family.

ARJ InfusionSERVICES

“You have a better chance at winning the lottery. We once again

found ourselves not knowing what to

do next.”

FEATURE

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6 | the infusion report | summer 2015

knowing which nurse is coming,” said Janet. “Our nurses truly go above and beyond for us.”

Kim Bushell, an ARJ nurse who provides care for Jadynn, is equally in awe of her 11-year-old patient. “She has made such large strides since coming on with ARJ,” said Kim. “I couldn’t be prouder.”

In fact, the entire family has come a long way—they’ve even learned how to give infusions to Jadynn. ARJ nurses encourage self-infusion and provide the necessary education to patients and families to enable them to administer treatment on their own.

A winning teamThere are many professionals at ARJ who make it their priority to ensure customer service is at its finest, and these experts help families like Jadynn’s every day.

“There have been times I’ve called ARJ with a question and Coree, the receptionist, answers the phone with such an inviting tone to her voice. She’s ready to help me no matter what,” said Janet. “There have been so many individuals who I’ve never met in person who have helped me better understand my insurance or how to become eligible for co-pay assistance programs. I can’t thank them enough.”

The high cost of medications and the frequency of treatments can often result in families spending

thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket expenses. “I had no idea about the types of assistance out there,” said Shane. “It’s helped us in so many different ways.”

With departments devoted to caring for the financial, mental, and lifestyle hardships families may face during treatment, patients like Jadynn and her family have access to a variety of valuable services and resources at ARJ.

Perfect gameToday, things are looking brighter for Jadynn and her family.

Their perspective has changed. Kasey, now 8-years-old, is part of the family’s weekly infusion routine. “During infusion time, both kids take a break and often find themselves playing a game together during infusion time. Jadynn has become an expert playing Xbox with one hand,” laughs Janet.

And most recently, the family has taken part in festivities at town fairs, and even designed their own float for a local parade. They continue to participate and volunteer at community events to help bring awareness to hemophilia. And perhaps best of all? They’re still knocking down pins as a family in their bowling leagues.

“It’s a family condition,” said Janet. “We’re all in this together.”

“It’s a family condition,” said Janet. “We’re all in this together.”

FEATURE

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summer 2015 | the infusion report | 7

ARJ InfusionSERVICES

Th e Patient Notifi cation System (PNS) is a valuable resource available to patients and families who use plasma and recombinant therapies. Recalls and withdrawals for medical products and ancillary supplies do occur, and ARJ wants to keep you and your family informed. When a recall or withdrawal is announced, ARJ pharmacists will be sure to notify you. In the meantime, PNS is the fastest way to learn about the latest medication announcements and recalls.

Independence is key for these fi rst-time infusers!We’re recognizing ARJ patients, family members, and caregivers who have independently set up and properly mixed, stuck, delivered, and cleaned up aft er infusing. Whether you’re a patient who successfully self-infused or a parent who infused independently for the fi rst time, we’re proud to celebrate your remarkable accomplishment in the patient spotlight board.

caregivers who have independently set up and properly

Did You Know?ARJ nurses are great educators and love to help patients become more independent and confi dent during self-infusion.

Th e Patient Notifi cation System (PNS) is a valuable resource available to

Patient Spotlight Board

Daddy RocksAlex K. Sr., Wichita, Kan.

Mommy RocksKristin M., Columbia, Mo.Maria B., Wichita, Kan.Mayra E., Wichita, Kan.Megan C., Fort Scott, Kan.

First StickDara J., Shawnee, Kan.Halee C., Pleasant, Mo.Jakoda R., McPherson, Kan.

Patient Notifi cation System (PNS)

Register today!Learn more by visiting patientnotifi cationsystem.org

Do you or someone you know deserve a shout-out?Send us an email at [email protected] and tell us your fi rst self-infusion story. We’d love to hear about it!

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8 | the infusion report | summer 2015

Becoming more commonMyasthenia gravis, often referred to as MG, occurs when a defect in the body’s immune system causes it to create antibodies against its own muscle tissue. The result is severe muscle fatigue, and can cause blurry or double vision, drooping eyelids, impaired speech, and weakness throughout the body. MG is commonly found in females under the age of 40 and men over the age of 60, but one can see symptoms at any age. This neuromuscular condition affects between 20,000 to 200,000 people every year. Allied Market Research Group, a consulting firm, forecasts intravenous immune globulin (IVIG), a commonly prescribed treatment to combat the symptoms of the disease, to grow in the ‘double digits between 2015 and 2021, due to the rising acceptance of IVIG.’

Mirrored symptomsThere are many conditions that present similar symptoms to MG. For example, fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis patients commonly experience chronic fatigue; individuals with Lupus may have migraines, muscle and joint pain; and people with

multiple sclerosis (MS) may feel tingling or prickling sensations throughout their body and face. Since there is limited research on MG, it tends to get overlooked as a possible diagnosis.

“Because MG is rare, many physicians are not knowledgeable about it, and consequently, patients are often misdiagnosed and treated improperly for years,” said Danielle Walk, executive director of the Kansas City Myasthenia Gravis Association (MGA). “By the time many patients find us, they often are already experiencing symptoms.”

Symptoms:• Drooping of one or both eyelids

• Blurry/double vision

• Change in facial expression

• Impaired speech

• Unstable/waddling gait

• Weakness in limbs, neck, arms, or hands

If you find yourself experiencing any of these symptoms, consult your physician immediately.

The Unknown CrisisNew insights on a neuromuscular disease that mirrors the symptoms of well-known diseases

Sleepy, one of the characters featured in the animated classic Snow White, was modeled after Walt Disney’s friend, who had myasthenia gravis.

Did You Know?

What if one morning you woke up and couldn’t open your eyes—no matter how

hard you tried? As we age, losing control of muscles and bodily functions is one

of the most difficult experiences we face. After age 40, we typically begin noticing

blurry vision, weaker limbs, shortness of breath, and forgetfulness. These symptoms

are generally considered a natural part of the aging process, but could also be

attributed to any number of various disease states.

FEATURE

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ARJ InfusionSERVICES

There’s good newsHome IVIG therapy is delivered by ARJ nurses in the comfort of the patient’s home. By providing normal antibodies that alter immune responses and with proper treatment, MG can be controlled.

This type of care has been used for decades to treat a variety of autoimmune disorders. More recently, it has been used extensively for neuromuscular conditions.

“We provide immune globulin care to individuals all over the country and find ongoing treatment may reduce or eliminate symptoms,” said Edie Williamson, Director of Nursing for ARJ. “Our patients have reported improvements in body strength, less fatigue, and a better quality of life.”

Early treatment makes a differencePatients who receive early and regular treatment can often live normal lives. Stay active in your healthcare and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Learn more!Visit arjinfusion.com/ivig to learn more about treatment options.

Remember to always consult your physician.

Danielle Walk urges individuals who have MG or who may

be experiencing MG symptoms to speak to a specialist.

“MGA provides individualized education and advocacy

for newly diagnosed families to help them adjust to living

with the condition,” she said. “We provide one-on-one

consultation, education, and social services assistance,

amongst many other types of help.”

Reach out to MGA in Kansas City at mgakc.org or (816) 256-4100 to find out about possible assistance or to find a local chapter near you.

A True TrailblazerARJ CEO receives national award in entrepreneurshipWe couldn’t be prouder of our very own Lisa Sackuvich, president and owner of ARJ Infusion Services, Inc., for being recognized as a national leader in small business and a top entrepreneur by Enterprising Women magazine.

As an honoree, Sackuvich was praised for demonstrating annual company growth, supporting women entrepreneurs through mentorship and volunteer work, and for her leadership in numerous communities throughout the Midwest.

The 13th Annual Enterprising Women of the Year Awards celebration was hosted in Buena Vista, Fla. The nationally renowned publication spotlighted organizational achievements of women business owners across the world.

ARJ is celebrating 15 years of service in caring for people with chronic, acute, and rare disorders. Over the past 15 years, ARJ has donated more than $2.5 million dollars toward community resources and gifts to individuals and families with these disorders.

Enterprising Women magazine is the nation’s only women-owned magazine published exclusively for women business owners, and chronicles the growing political, economic, and social influence and power of entrepreneurial women.

“Our commitment to exceptional patient care hasn’t changed, and we stay true to the company values started 15 years ago. I’m thrilled ARJ can support small and inspiring women-owned businesses, especially those individuals who dream of being innovators.”Lisa Sackuvich

FEATURE

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10 | the infusion report | summer 2015

Is this what we’ve been waiting for?As the pace of modern life continues to pick up speed, the bleeding disorder community calls for better half-life alternative medication options that fi t comfortably in busy schedules. Manufacturers and pharmacies are adjusting to meet the demand—and in 2014, longer-lasting factor products fi nally hit the market.

Longer-Lasting Factor: Does it go the Distance? The facts on longer-lasting factor—and knowing what’s right for you

For decades, patients have relied on infusion products with a relatively short half-life

to treat hemophilia. But for many patients, this means daily infusions and nursing

visits—and in some instances, it may even require dosing several times a day. This factor

is not only inconvenient, but may also become unnecessary as advancements in

half-life medications show promise in improving patients’ quality of life.

INDUSTRY & INNOVATIONS

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As anticipated, patients began asking their providers to help them make the switch to a longer-lasting factor. Th e new products have shown success for people treating hemophilia: Th is means fewer sticks per month, and for many, their annual bleed rate (ABR) remains the same or has decreased. Th is is fantastic news for anyone who wants to live more and infuse less. Seems like a win-win, right?

We’re excited for the new longer-lasting product and the profound impact it may have on people with hemophilia across the world. All of this supports our commitment to providing the highest level of care to patients in our ARJ family. Since every patient is unique, we encourage you to discuss treatment options with your care team in order to evaluate whether longer-lasting factor products are right for you.

If you’re thinking about switching to a longer-lasting product, have you thought about these questions?Will my insurance cover this product?One of the biggest challenges continues to be whether insurance will cover the cost of longer-lasting factor. Many payers will not cover these products or will only cover them as prescriptions rather than medical

expenses. Th is may lead to nearly unmanageable co-pays.

Is co-pay and premium assistance available for these new products?Consult an ARJ Patient Resource Coordinator to fi nd out your options. He or she will be able to help you review your benefi ts and sign up for any free or discounted programs that may be available to you.

What if I have a bleed? Can I continue using the longer-lasting factor, or will I need to supplement with additional products?In this case it’s best to contact your hematologist or hemophilia treatment center to discuss the dosage options that work best for you.

Can I over-clot with this product?It is important to consult your physician when dosing with any factor product for bleeding episodes outside your prophylactic schedule.

Is it safe to switch from plasma-derived products to recombinant infusions?Both plasma-derived and recombinant factor products have benefi ts and downfalls. Th is is an individual decision that should be discussed with your hematologist. Many patients can switch with no problem while others react better to one or the other.

What if longer-lasting products aren’t a good fi t for me?As with any new medication, understanding what works best takes time. Th e bleeding disorder community will continue to advocate for better treatment options. Support groups and community members are a great source of help; however, they are not a substitute for medical advice. Reach out to your care team to fi nd out what steps you can take to move closer toward your treatment goal.

Longer-lasting products are benefi cial for several reasons—here’s what we like:

• Parents may not have to dose children as frequently

• Fewer doses are necessary each month, so supplies and storage are minimal

• Lengthier coverage can mean fewer bleeds, allowing individuals to be more involved in activities

ARJ InfusionSERVICES

Tell a HEMO friend | We believe our Patient Services Department is one of the best in the country. Th ey’re providing families with the fi nancial and lifestyle support every hemophilia patient should be receiving. Do you know someone who should be receiving better infusion care?

Visit arjinfusion.com/patient-services to learn more or contact your ARJ Patient Services Representative.

INDUSTRY & INNOVATIONS

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A Call to DutyToday’s caregivers are experiencing caregiver syndrome and it’s not going away

Sound familiar?• Angerandguilt–

Directed at the person with the chronic condition

• Socialwithdrawalandexhaustion–Loss of interest or time to pursue activities you used to enjoy

• Anxiety–About facing the future and its new challenges

• Depression–Change in family role and responsibilities

• Irritability–Leads to moodiness and short temper

• Lackofconcentration–Routine tasks become difficult

Caregiving can lead to feelings of self-worth. It can also help you give

back to a loved one. And although we don’t always choose to take

on this honored service, there are pitfalls we must not plunge into.

Help You DeserveDon’t know where to start? Give ARJ a call at (866) 451-8804 and ask to speak to a Patient Resource Coordinator.

Lessen the stressIf you recognize any of the feelings listed to the left, you might benefit from these coping strategies.

• Take breaks – Chatting with a friend, playing a game, listening to music, or reading a book outside can provide a sense of calm and help break up the day.

• Treat yourself – Eat a balanced meal, get a restful night of sleep, and take some time to exercise. Even a short walk can help to clear your mind.

• Ask for help – Ask a friend or family member to assist you with small tasks and chores.

• Understand your limits – Realize that you can’t do everything for everyone. Create a weekly to-do list with no more than 5-7 tasks.

• See a doctor – Inform your physician you’re a caregiver, and explain any symptoms of depression or sickness you may be experiencing.

• Keep your sense of humor – Smile, laugh, and find humor in each day.

When you feel happy and healthy, your loved one will feel it, too.

The darker side There’s a dark side in caring for a child with a chronic condition or an aging parent who requires more care as each day passes. This responsibility is only increasing as hospital stays become shorter and multigenerational families live together under one roof. As these extreme daily pressures stack up, they cast a shadow on your overall health and well-being.

50% of caregivers have experienced clinical depression

Source: www.aamft.org

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FamilyWE’RE PRACTICALLY

YOUR NEIGHBORA trusted home infusion provider delivering

specialty pharmacy and high-tech nursing services across the country and right to your doorstep.

States currently pending pharmacy coverage designation: North Carolina, South Carolina, and California

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website wherever you’re at!

ARJ InfusionSERVICES

• Personalized patient care

• Highly skilled nurses

• Experienced pharmacists

• Patient services experts

• Insurance & fi nancial assistance

• And more

(866) 451-8804

ARJ InfusionSERVICES

10049 Lakeview Ave.Lenexa, KS 66219

arjinfusion.com

Visit our new