At-Home Chemotherapy Proves Safe and Feasible

Mayo Clinic study shows home-based chemo can reduce burdens for cancer patients.

Mar. 27, 2026 at 7:00pm

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A new pilot study from the Mayo Clinic found that delivering chemotherapy to cancer patients in their homes is safe and effective, with no treatment-related issues reported among the 10 participants. The approach aims to reduce the physical, emotional, and financial burdens of cancer treatment by allowing patients to receive care from the comfort of their own homes.

Why it matters

This home-based chemo model could expand access to care for patients who face barriers to reaching traditional cancer centers, while also improving quality of life during treatment by minimizing disruptions to daily life.

The details

Researchers delivered 93 IV chemo infusions to 10 patients in their homes, with patients maintaining a continuous connection to their cancer care team through virtual visits and remote monitoring. Results showed no treatment-related infusion reactions or catheter-related infections, and six of the 10 patients completed at least six months of home-based chemo, with four of those requesting to continue beyond the initial period. Four patients had to quit early, mostly due to needing a different chemo regimen that couldn't be delivered at home.

  • The pilot study was published in the April 2026 issue of the journal NEJM Catalyst.
  • Mayo Clinic launched a full-fledged clinical trial on this approach in August 2023.

The players

Dr. Roxana Dronca

The lead researcher on the study and site director of the Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center in Jacksonville, Florida.

Mayo Clinic

The healthcare organization that conducted the pilot study and is now following up with a larger clinical trial on home-based chemotherapy.

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What they’re saying

“Cancer care has traditionally required patients to spend long hours in infusion centers, often far from home. This model allows us to safely bring high-quality care directly to patients, reducing burden while maintaining the standards patients expect from Mayo Clinic.”

— Dr. Roxana Dronca, Lead Researcher

“This approach is about more than convenience. It's about improving quality of life during treatment and expanding access to care for patients who may face barriers to reaching traditional cancer centers.”

— Dr. Roxana Dronca, Lead Researcher

What’s next

Mayo Clinic is following up this pilot study with a full-fledged clinical trial, which launched in August 2023.

The takeaway

Home-based chemotherapy has the potential to significantly improve the cancer treatment experience for patients by reducing the physical, emotional, and financial burdens associated with traditional in-clinic care. If the larger clinical trial confirms the safety and feasibility of this approach, it could expand access to high-quality cancer care for patients who face barriers to reaching traditional treatment centers.