Ambulatory infusion centers provide an alternative to hospital-based outpatient infusion therapy. These centers administer medications such as antibiotics, hydration therapy, chemotherapy, pain management, and immune globulin through an intravenous line or catheter but allow patients to receive treatment in more convenient and cost-effective facilities. Ambulatory infusion therapy minimizes hospital visits and allows patients to continue their daily activities while undergoing treatment. This reduces medical costs and provides a higher quality of life to patients.
The Global Ambulatory Infusion Center Market is estimated to be valued at US$ 67.84 Bn in 2024 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 9.6% over the forecast period 2024 to 2031.
Key Takeaways
Key players operating in the Ambulatory Infusion Center are Option Care Health, PharmaScript, Cleveland Clinic, Stoughton Health, Coram CVS, Hattiesburg Clinic, UnitedHealth Group, UK HealthCare, CHI Health, PharMerica, Beacon Health System, Inc., Arnot Health, Inc. , IVX Health and Precision Healthcare. These key players are focusing on expanding their ambulatory infusion center networks to cater to the growing demand for convenient outpatient care services.
The increasing incidence of chronic diseases coupled with the rising geriatric population susceptible to various diseases is driving the demand for ambulatory infusion therapy services. Additionally, the preference for home healthcare over prolonged hospital stays is also propelling the market growth.
Technological advancements in infusion therapy devices such as smart pumps with integrated software for optimized drug delivery have enhanced patient monitoring in ambulatory settings. The development of portable infusion systems has empowered clinicians to efficiently manage patients receiving long-term outpatient therapies.
Market Trends
Rising awareness about cost-effective and convenient ambulatory infusion services compared to hospital-based treatments is encouraging more patients to opt for outpatient infusion therapy. Healthcare providers are also promoting ambulatory infusion centers to avoid unnecessary hospital admissions.
There is an increased adoption of mobile infusion units by ambulatory infusion center chains. These mobile units provide infusion services at the doorstep of patients in rural areas who have limited access to fixed-facility centers.
Market Opportunities
The growing geriatric population vulnerable to chronic diseases worldwide presents lucrative opportunities for ambulatory infusion center market players. Providing specialized infusion therapies for conditions like immunodeficiency and cancer would help companies expand their service offerings.
Early discharge programs being adopted by hospitals allowing patients to complete their infusion treatments at outpatient centers present attractive margins for infusion center investments and partnerships between hospitals and ambulatory providers.
Impact of COVID-19 on Ambulatory Infusion Center Market Growth
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the growth of the ambulatory infusion center market globally. During the initial outbreak, non-emergency services including ambulatory infusion services witnessed a decline as focus shifted towards treating COVID patients. Social distancing norms also restricted visits to ambulatory infusion centers. However, with relaxations in lockdown restrictions and improved management of non-COVID cases, the market has started recovering. Many centers adopted strict safety measures like reduced patient capacity, increased sanitization practices. Telehealth also emerged as an effective medium to continue remote monitoring and counseling of patients. With the development and administration of vaccines providing hope of controlling the pandemic, market growth is projected to accelerate in the coming years. Centers will need to focus on restoring patients' trust and expanding service portfolios to match the evolving needs in a post-COVID scenario.
Geographical Regions with Highest Market Value for Ambulatory Infusion Center
North America currently holds the largest share of the ambulatory infusion center market in terms of value. This can be mainly attributed to the presence of major players, rising prevalence of chronic diseases, developed healthcare infrastructure and favorable reimbursement policies in the region. Additionally, growing preference for home and outpatient settings over traditional hospitalization is fueling the market growth. Within North America, the United States accounts for the maximum market revenue and is expected remain the most lucrative country.
Fastest Growing Region for Ambulatory Infusion Center Market
Asia Pacific is poised to be the fastest growing region in the global ambulatory infusion center market during the forecast years. Factors such as improving healthcare infrastructure, increasing healthcare investments, rising medical tourism and rapidly expanding patient pool are driving the market growth in Asia Pacific. Moreover, growing geriatric population suffering from chronic conditions and changing perceptions towards ambulatory services in developing nations like China and India provide lucrative opportunities. Initiatives by regional governments to promote cost-effective ambulatory care models are further augmenting the regional market.