Integrated Health Clinic, offers Iron infusions for patients across the Fraser Valley. Patients can now quickly and conveniently access IV iron for iron deficiency anemia.
IHC offers safe and efficient medical iron infusions, for those who are iron deficient. Iron deficiency can be caused by a variety of conditions including pregnancy, heavy or irregular menstrual cycles, GI illness, cardiac and renal issues, cancer, and more. Referrals from your health care provider, (GP, ND, midwife, and other specialists) are accepted but not required. All of our infusions are administered by highly trained nurses with IHC physician oversight.
Please give us a call to book your IRON IV SCREENING – 604-888-8325
About iron deficiency
Iron deficiency is incredibly common world wide, affecting approximately 12% of the global population. The numbers are highest in women 18-45yrs, and people living in lower-income countries. In North America 10% of women of child-bearing age are believed to be iron deficient. An astounding 25% of pregnant women are thought to be iron deficient.
Causes:
Obstetric and gynaecologic causes are most common in pre-menopausal women. In addition to blood loss, poor iron intake from restrictive diets can also exacerbate or even lead to iron deficiency. Oral iron supplements can be difficult to absorb, and constipating to many people.
Symptoms:
Iron deficiency can cause several different symptoms that vary depending on how low your iron level is and how depleted your iron stores are.
The most common initial symptoms of iron deficiency are:
- Chronic fatigue
- Trouble concentrating
- Irritability and mood swings
- Iron deficiency also causes:
- Pale skin
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Feeling cold when others don’t
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Ice cravings
- Restless legs
- Exercise intolerance
If you (or your child) identify with any of the specified risk groups and/or are experiencing three or more of the symptoms listed in the Symptoms Checker, it is highly recommended to speak with your doctor regarding the possibility of being iron deficient. Blood tests can easily be ordered to assess deficiencies or adequate iron levels.
Testing:
The most sensitive test for iron deficiency is a low serum ferritin. A low ferritin is the first indicator of dropping iron and should be the initial test of choice for physicians suspecting iron deficiency in most of their patients. Other iron tests include hemoglobin, transferrin saturation and TIBC (Total Iron Binding Capacity).
Do I need a referral for an iron infusion?
No. We accept referrals from physicians, naturopathic doctors, midwives, and other specialists, but referrals are not required. Give us a call to book your screenings to 604-888-8365.
How soon can I can book in to the clinic?
Mainline/ IHC aim to offer new patients a first appointment within two weeks of receiving the referral.
How long does the infusion take?
First appointments, including the infusion, take approximately 1 hour 15 mins. Rare circumstances may require the infusions to run longer.
How long before I start to feel better?
Typically, clinical improvement starts 3-4 days after your first infusion and should continue until 12-14 days after the infusion(s).
How long does the infusion last for?
This varies from patient to patient. If the initial cause is addressed, most patients do not require further infusions after iron levels return to normal.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for the infusion?
No specific preparation is necessary but wearing warm, comfortable clothing and being well hydrated can help the nursing staff establish an IV.
Should I continue taking oral iron supplements if I am coming in for an iron infusion?
You do not need to continue taking oral iron supplements unless specifically instructed to by your doctor.
Are there any side effects from having an iron infusion?
The majority of patients do not experience any side effects. Some patients may get a mild rash or flushing during their infusion. This is usually resolved by slowing the infusion rate. 1 in 10 patients can experience flu-like symptoms, including muscle/joint aches up to several days post-infusion. These are benign and will resolve on their own but the symptoms can improve significantly with Tylenol and Ibuprofen. Another small portion of patients may notice their urine will briefly be a darker colour. This is benign and will go away without the need for intervention. Should there be any other specific concerns the Mainline staff are available to consult over the phone.
What type of supervision is present during the infusions?
An IHC physician is present in the clinic for every patient’s infusion.
How much do iron infusions cost?
There are two costs: the iron itself and an infusion fee for the IV administration. We offer two types of iron: Iron Sucrose and Monoferric Iron.
The iron is a prescription medication and sold by a Pharmacy.
The iron costs are approx:
Monoferric 1000mg – $530
Monoferric 500 mg – $275
Iron Sucrose 250mg- $110
There is also $235 infusion fee charged for monoferric infusions, or a $150 fee for sucrose infusions.
Does my insurance cover any of the cost?
A majority of prescription drug costs are often covered for patients with extended health benefits. The pharmacy is able to apply your insurance coverage immediately over the phone and patients will simply need to pay any remaining amount.
For infusion fees, patients with extended health benefits that include a “Health Spending Account” or “Out of Hospital Nursing Coverage” may be eligible to have some or all of this cost reimbursed as well. Patients should check with their provider first to confirm whether this cost is covered.
We are a team of doctors focused on understanding the international scope of integrative care options and brining those options to our patients. We work with natural therapies and support conventional treatments to develop individualized protocols that maximize efficacy and target your needs.
