Area hospital networks to use new COVID-19 antibody treatment

MIAMI VALLEY — Two of the region’s largest hospital networks will begin offering a new antibody treatment for people who have tested positive for COVID-19 and have moderate symptoms.

Kettering Health Network and Premier Health have started treatments with the antibody therapy Bamlanivimab, network spokespersons announced Wednesday. Qualified patients receiving treatment within the health networks can now receive the treatment shown in clinical trials to prevent hospital admissions due to COVID-19.

A Premier Health spokesperson said the therapy is designed to provide treatment for those with moderate symptoms who are at risk for severe illness.

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The U.S Food and Drug Administration granted emergency use authorization for Bamlanivimab in November. Patients diagnosed with COVID-19 could be eligible for the antibody treatment if they are experiencing mild symptoms, including fever, cough, chills, and shortness of breath.

Referral from a physician is required for receiving the Bamlanivimab treatment with Kettering Health Network and qualification will be determined by primary care or emergency department providers.

Premier Health will not distribute the treatment to currently hospitalized patients. For qualification with Premier, the patient must have received their first positive test result and have an onset of symptoms within seven days.

“This is another tool in our arsenal against COVID-19. By using Bamlanivimab, we hope to help more patients avoid hospital stays,” Dr. Jeffrey Weinstein, patient safety officer for Kettering Health Network said in the media release.

“We will continue to seek the latest advancements to ensure that the people of southwest Ohio have access to the best possible care.”

Cox Media Group