The Heart & Vascular Center

The Coumadin Clinics

In an effort to better serve our patients who take Coumadin, the Heart & Vascular Center has a specialized clinic in Sarasota. Patients on Coumadin traditionally are send to medical labs to have Protimes drawn by venipuncture. The lab processes the test and reports the results to your physician's office. The results are interpreted by either a physician or his/her office staff and the Coumadin dose may be adjusted accordingly. Finally, the staff contacts the patient to communicate the results and any necessary dosage changes.

The Coumadin Clinics streamline this process. Staffed by nursing professionals (usually Registered Nurses) who specialize in anticoagulation therapy, the clinics utilize the latest technology to obtain "instant" protime results without venipuncture. Your PT/INR can be determined in minutes from only a few drops of blood obtained form a finger-stick puncture. The professional then uses the results to determine if a dosage adjustment is required, and if so, can discuss the change "face to face"--- no more waiting for a phone call. Most importantly, the nurse can educate you about Coumadin and answer any questions you may have about your Coumadin therapy. You will receive education that is tailored to your needs, preferences, and lifestyle. Studies have shown that patients who participate in clinics have a much lower incidence of heart attacks, strokes, and hemorrhage than those who are cared for in the traditional manner.

The Coumadin Clinics are open to Heart & Vascular Center patients only. If you are interested in attending a Coumadin Clinic, speak to your Heart & Vascular Center physician for a referral.

Interested in more information on Coumadin, protime testing and lifestyle factors which affect Coumadin therapy? This, and other information, can be found on our educational pages, and on our articles page.