Anticoagulants are medications that treat and prevent blood clots. Since these medications can be dangerous and require extra monitoring, our clinic will collaborate with referring physicians to help provide comprehensive oversight of each patient's care.
Patients on anticoagulants typically need to be seen more frequently and benefit from more thorough education.
During the visit, a specially trained pharmacist will monitor and manage each patient's therapy to achieve the desired outcome with the least adverse effects. Our services include:
- Point of care INR testing with immediate results
- Medication adjustment as necessary
- Face-to-face patient education
- Thorough medical history review
- Drug/food interaction screen
It is important for our pharmacists to review each patient's current medications at each appointment. We ask patients to bring a complete list (including supplements and over-the-counter products) to each appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How am I referred to the clinic?
We require a physician referral form from the physician currently managing your anticoagulation therapy. This can be your primary care provider or a specialist. Medical staff from the hospital may also refer you to the clinic. Either way, our staff will communicate with your primary care provider to ensure a seamless transition to our clinic. If your doctor refers you to our anticoagulation clinic, you will be contacted to schedule your initial appointment.
What happens during the appointment?
During your appointment, we will obtain a thorough medical history including a complete medication history, allergies and any recent symptoms. We will then check your INR (a finger-stick blood test used to measure your clotting time) and review your result. The INR test helps inform us about how the medication is working and how your body is responding. This will help us make any adjustments to ensure you are on the appropriate dose. Finally, we will provide individualized education about your medication and answer any questions you might have. Before leaving, you will be provided with a written document going over what was discussed and how to proceed.
Where is the Western Reserve Hospital Anticoagulation Clinic located?
We are located inside Western Reserve Hospital at 1900 23rd Street in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. When you arrive for your first visit, please check in at the registration desk. From there, we can direct you to the appropriate location.
To learn more about the Western Reserve Hospital Anticoagulation Clinic and how it can benefit you, call (330) 971-7095.