For the first time in Canada, a cancer patient in New Brunswick has received immunotherapy at home instead of in a hospital.
Led by Horizon Health Network, Roche Canada, and ResearchNB, the trial aims to reduce patient burden and ease strain on hospitals.
The study is led by Horizon’s Head Oncologist, Dr. Mahmoud Abdelsalam, who is overseeing the research to determine whether at-home immunotherapy can be just as safe and effective as hospital-based treatment.
Horizon Health Network said patients normally spend about an hour in a hospital for their infusions, but this trial uses a subcutaneous injection, allowing treatment to be completed in just seven minutes at home.
Abdelsalam explained that this approach could reduce the burden on patients who struggle with frequent hospital visits.
“For many, travelling to the hospital every few weeks isn’t just about medical care—it’s a financial and social challenge,” he said.
Abdelsalam also noted that they are testing whether trained nurses can safely administer subcutaneous injections at home instead of requiring hospital visits for IV infusion therapy.
Extra-Mural Program nurses assess patients before treatment to ensure safety, while pharmacists manage medication delivery.
The first patient who received treatment lived near Moncton, and researchers plan to expand enrollment to 15-20 participants.
The study is expected to run for up to two years, with results anticipated by the end of 2026.
If successful, this research could expand beyond New Brunswick, making treatment more accessible for cancer patients across Canada.
Abdelsalam said receiving immunotherapy at home could also eliminate long hospital visits and allow patients to stay in a more comfortable environment.
He also explained that before expanding to other provinces, researchers need to confirm that at-home immunotherapy meets the same safety and effectiveness standards as hospital-administered treatment.
“We need to make sure this system works and that it’s safe before taking the next step,” Abdelsalam said.
If the research proves successful, Horizon Health Network said this approach could be introduced in other provinces, providing a faster, more accessible way for cancer patients to receive care without disrupting their routines.
