If you have COVID-19, you may be eligible for Monoclonal Antibody Treatment.
What is monoclonal antibody COVID-19 treatment?
Monoclonal antibodies are like your body’s own antibodies, as they help your immune system quickly destroy the COVID-19 virus before it harms you or causes hospitalization. Fortunately, the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has authorized monoclonal antibody treatment for eligible patients.
Who’s eligible for treatment?
Phoebe has operated one of the largest monoclonal antibody treatment programs in Georgia. Since January 2021, we have provided this therapy to thousands of COVID-19 patients. Those treatments likely prevented hundreds of hospitalizations. The federal government has released guidelines for who can receive the treatment, prioritizing those most at risk for severe complications from COVID.
The supply of monoclonal antibody medications remains limited, but we are currently able to offer the treatment to COVID-19 patients who are:
- At least 65 years old, regardless of vaccination status
- Younger than 65 with clinical risk factors, regardless of vaccination status
We are disappointed that we cannot currently provide this treatment to many COVID patients in our community, but the medications are federal assets, and we must follow the government’s rules. We have no control over the supply chain or the current treatment restrictions.
How much will treatment cost?
Phoebe has made strides to ensure this lifesaving treatment is available at no cost to our patients. There will be no charge for the antibody product itself, and the administration and supply charges will be billed to insurance with no cost sharing, deductible or coinsurance for the patient. Even those who do not have insurance can receive treatment at no cost.
Where can I receive treatment?
Dependent on supply, Phoebe offers monoclonal antibody treatments in Albany, Americus and Sylvester. If you received a positive COVID-19 test result, please talk to your physician to see if you qualify for the monoclonal antibody infusion therapy. Your physician can refer you for treatment. Early action is vital – don’t wait! Monoclonal antibody treatment must be given as soon as possible – within 10 days of the onset of symptoms. These treatments are given through a one-time IV infusion in an outpatient setting.
If you do not have a medical provider, please call 229-312-MYMD to get the referral process started.