Dear Adena Caregiver,
Since 2010, Adena’s Anti Coagulation Clinic has existed to provide excellent care for our patients who are on Warfarin, an anticoagulant normally used in the prevention of clots in the blood vessels. Located in the Adena Wellness Building – Main (across from Kenworth), we also operate clinics on various days at Adena’s Western Avenue and Waverly Urgent Care locations. I am pleased to tell you that beginning Monday, Mar. 14, Adena’s Anticoagulation Management Service (ACMS) will also offer anticoagulation services in the Adena Jackson Health Center.
The services available from ACMS can help patients at risk for coagulation obtain INR values through a finger-stick instead of a traditional venipuncture. Warfarin dosages can also be adjusted by ACMS staff based on these test results, using an established collaborative practice agreement protocol. Because the readings come just 30 seconds after the test begins, we can increase safety by eliminating the lag time between test and result.
Other services by ACMS include:
· Continuous education on medication and dietary interactions, and what to do in a coagulation-related emergency;
· Access to a Registered Pharmacist Monday - Friday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.;
· Individualized attention for patients preparing for surgery or other procedures that may require bridging with Lovenox; and
· Working directly with the medical personnel conducting these procedures to ensure patient safety.
If you have a patient who is currently taking Warfarin, and you would like them to become a part of our service, please contact our office to request a referral form via e-mail or fax. You may call (740) 779-8745. ACMS receives patients by referral only, in compliance with the collaborative practice agreement.
Once we have received a completed referral, we will contact the patient to schedule an appointment. First appointments for our patients last approximately one hour. During this appointment, we will provide extensive education regarding Warfarin. Follow up appointments vary by patient, but generally range from just 10 – 15 minutes.
Please do not hesitate to call our office if you have questions or need additional information. We appreciate the opportunity to care for your patients.
Sincerely,
Dr. Gregory J. Levitt, PharmD., Team Lead
Adena Anticoagulation Management Service