Regional Infusion Center set to quintuple COVID treatment

Flanked by county judges and hospital representatives at a 9 a.m. press conference at 5500 Eastex Freeway, Jefferson County Judge Jeff Branick announced the opening of the Regional Infusion Center, which he says will offer a five-fold boost to the area’s capacity to administer infusions to COVID-19-positive patients. 

There are two pathways for patients to receive the monoclonal antibody treatment, according to Branick. Primary care physicians may refer their COVID-positive patients to the Regional Infusion Center in the first 10 days after diagnosis. COVID-19-positive residents of Southeast Texas who don’t have a primary care physician may call (409) 550-2536 to schedule treatment.

“(The infusion center) serves as an outpatient infusion treatment center for adults and children ages 12 and up,” according to Allison Getz, Jefferson County public information officer. “The infusion center for COVID-19 patients is operational seven days a week from 7 a.m. through 7 p.m.”

The establishment of this infusion center is expected to increase the number of daily infusions available by 500%, touted Branick, who spoke alongside Jefferson County Office of Emergency Management officials, Hardin County Judge Wayne McDaniel, Jasper County Judge Mark Allen, Orange County Judge John Gothia, as well as representatives from Baptist Hospital, CHRISTUS Hospital, Medical Center of Southeast Texas and Mid Jefferson Medical Center. This will allow local and state partners to administer infusions of Regeneron’s monoclonal antibody treatment to 150 patients daily. Branick said the center will remain open for as long as there is need for it.

At Governor Greg Abbott’s direction, TDEM contracted with a private vendor and will provide all the necessary equipment and staffing resources to ensure the center is fully operational. The local entities are providing the facility, and on-site physician, security, internet access and an appointment hotline.

“I am deeply appreciative of the Texas Division of Emergency Management for their partnership in bringing to the citizens of Southeast Texas an initiative that is proven to reduce COVID hospitalizations dramatically and provide relief and healing to the suffering,” Branick said.

“Your primary care physician will schedule the infusion. If you test positive and do not have a doctor, you may call the hotline to schedule an appointment (at) (409) 550-2536. Press option 1 for the infusion center. Callers are encouraged to keep dialing if confronted with a busy signal. Patients must be confirmed COVID-19 positive before contacting the center. The calls will be screened by medical personnel for eligibility and individuals will be given an appointment date and time.”