Bruce Vanderhoff, MD, director of the Ohio Department of Health (ODH), has issued guidance for physicians and other health care professionals on the availability of, and access to, monoclonal antibody treatment for mild to moderate COVID-19.
Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are an important COVID-19 treatment option for people at high risk for severe COVID-19 outcomes. The treatment is available at more than 300 registered health care locations across Ohio. These antibodies can help the immune system recognize and respond more effectively to the virus. Recently, use of monoclonal antibodies has increased significantly in Ohio, with thousands of doses per week now being administered at hospitals, long-term care pharmacies, community health centers, infusion centers, and other locations.
ODH wants to ensure that all physicians across Ohio are aware of the availability of this treatment option, and refer patients to treatment locations as appropriate. Physicians caring for COVID-19 patients should determine whether antibodies are a recommended treatment for that individual, and make referrals to facilities offering the treatment option accordingly.