OPAT Frequently Asked Questions
Patients who require intra-venous, intra-muscular or subcutaneous medications, are medically stable, and do not require additional services better provided by an acute care hospital or a long-term care facility are potential candidates for OPAT. Our Infectious Diseases team will evaluate each patient's case to ensure they are appropriate candidates, and our patient navigators will ensure insurance coverage is appropriate. Note that we will work with uninsured patients to accommodate them on a case-by-case basis.
How Long Is The Process For OPAT Referral?
Usually a referral takes less than 24 hours. This includes phone contact with the referring physician, verification of insurance and evaluation of the patient's clinical status by our Infectious Diseases team. We can frequently accommodate visits same-day if referrals occur in the morning.
What Are The Most Common Medications Used In OPAT?
Some commonly used medication include: amikacin, ceftriaxone, daptomycin, ertapenem, gentamicin, and micafungin among others. We can also administer other medications aside from antibiotics such as intravenous steroids, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg), and others.
What Are The Most Common Diagnoses Treated In OPAT?
Some commonly treated conditions include: skin, soft tissue, and bone infections (cellulitis, abscesses, septic arthritis, osteomyelitis, etc), urinary tract infections (cystitis,pyelonephritis), blood infections (bacteremia, endocarditis, etc), as well as infections involving prosthetic devices (joints, cardiac devices, urinary stents, etc) among many. Our Infectious Diseases team will work with the referring physician to create an appropriate treatment plan for many diagnoses.
Where Is OPAT Located?
We are located inside NewYork-Presbyterian Queens on the 6th floor, South Building (6 South). We can be reached via the red elevators from the first floor. Our address is 56-45 Main Street, 6 South, Flushing, NY 11355.
Is OPAT Open On Weekends And Holidays?
The OPAT Unit is open 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Medical treatment for infection should never be interrupted to ensure the best outcome for the patient. We do not close for any national or religious holidays, and our Infectious Diseases team is available whenever OPAT is open.
Who Follows Patients That Complete Their Treatment In OPAT?
Our Infectious Diseases team will coordinate follow-up on a case-by-case basis. Some patients follow-up with their primary care or referring providers after completing treatment with us. Others may additionally follow-up with our ID physicians in our offices. All of these options will be discussed with the patient and referring provider.
Will My Primary Care Physician Be Notified Of My Progress In OPAT?
We coordinate care with all referring and primary care providers as each patient's case dictates.
Whom Can I Call If I Have Questions About My Treatment?
Our patient navigator can be reached for any questions at 718-670-2289 and they will facilitate contact with the Infectious Diseases team. After hours, calls can be made to 718-670-1525. For any emergencies, patients need to call 911 and go their nearest emergency room.