Q: What does it mean to receive an autologous transplant as an outpatient?
A: Depending on your disease and particular case, you may receive your conditioning chemotherapy regimen inpatient or outpatient. If you are admitted to start transplant chemotherapy, upon the discretion of the attending physician, you will be discharged from the hospital while waiting for your blood counts to recover.

You must be within a 20 minute travel time from the hospital. If you live outside of this parameter, our social workers will work with you to set up accommodations at the Helmsley Medical Tower or American Cancer Society Hope Lodge.

A caregiver will be required to be with you 24/7 during this recovery process. You will be seen daily in the day hospital by a Nurse Practitioner (NP)/Physician’s Assistant (PA) and by one of the attending physicians. Blood work will be drawn and reviewed, and necessary medical treatments will be provided during your visit.

Once your blood counts recover, you will be discharged from the day hospital program and follow-up will be organized with your primary transplant doctor.

Q: What are some of the benefits in completing the transplant process as an outpatient?
A: It allows you and your caregiver to be in the comforts of your home, or home-like setting.

Q: Why do I need to come to the day hospital after an allogeneic transplant?
A: The transition between hospitalization and discharge can be an overwhelming process for you and your caregiver. It is also a crucial time in your recovery process. We want to monitor your blood work carefully, review your complex medication regimen and provide support during this time. Being part of the day hospital program allows this individualized care to happen.

Q: What do I do if I don’t feel well?
A: If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, we ask you to call 911, or go to the nearest Emergency room.

For all other concerns, we ask you to call your physician’s office 24/7. After clinic hours, there is a covering physician on call. You will be triaged over the phone and instructed on what to do. You may be asked to come to the day hospital or Emergency room to be assessed.  Depending on the severity of your symptoms, you may be readmitted to the hospital.