Some people take an oral anticoagulant called Coumadin, also known as Warfarin, to prevent blood clots. They need to have their blood checked regularly to monitor their treatment. The purpose of the Anticoagulation Clinic is to monitor oral anticoagulation therapy with regular blood tests.
If you have a reason to take oral anticoagulants, your regular doctor or specialist can refer you to the Anticoagulation Clinic. Once referred to the clinic, you will continue to see your regular doctor or specialist for your usual health care. We will work with your doctor to monitor your treatment, including making changes to your warfarin dose when necessary, and ordering lab tests.
The Anticoagulation Clinic will monitor your oral anticoagulation therapy with regular blood tests and assessments. You will receive one-on-one care and counseling from a health care provider who has special training in anticoagulation therapy, including the hazards, benefits and possible side effects of your anticoagulation medicine.
Each time you visit the clinic, the practitioner will test your prothrombin time/INR to see how quickly your blood is clotting. Your warfarin will be adjusted when needed. You will be checked for possible side effects of therapy, and for possible interactions between your medications, vitamins and herbs. Advice and information about your diet, exercise and activities will be offered, and a report is sent to your referring doctor at each visit.
The advantages of coming to the Anticoagulation Clinic include getting an immediate result on your prothrombin time/INR and immediate instructions on dosing, convenient and consistent monitoring of your therapy, individual counseling and education, and potentially reduced risk of warfarin side effects.
Anticoagulation Clinic
5910 Clark Road, Suite U
(530) 872-9729