Anticoagulation Services in St. James

If you take anticoagulation medication called warfarin, often referred to as the brand name Coumadin, to help prevent excess blood clotting, regular blood testing and dose adjustments are necessary to avoid bleeding while still preventing undesired clotting. Our clinicians in St. James, Minnesota, have advanced training in anticoagulation management and will help you manage your warfarin use.

During a typical visit, you can expect:

• An appointment lasting 10 to 15 minutes
• A finger stick blood draw to get your international normalized ratio, or INR
• Discussion with a clinician to receive your blood test result and dosing directions, and review any issues related to taking warfarin, including diet, drug interactions and side effects
• Additional education, if needed, along with a printed summary of the INR result and dosing
• Your next appointment date and time

In the first month, visits are frequent to adjust optimally adjust your medication level. We'll spend extra time with you to coordinate your specific warfarin therapy needs.

Anticoagulation services FAQ

Who needs warfarin?

When an injury occurs that causes bleeding, a blood clot forms to stop the bleeding. When the injured blood vessel has healed itself, the clot is no longer needed and is gradually reabsorbed by the body. Substances in the blood called clotting factors work to ensure that the blood flows freely and clots only when necessary. In some situations, the body becomes more prone to developing blood clots abnormally, leading to clots in areas that can cause harm, including the heart, lungs, brain or extremities. This can cause a blockage in circulation and hinder blood flow.

Patients at high risk for developing a blood clot can be prescribed warfarin, or Coumadin, to prevent the formation of a blood clot. Medical conditions that may require the use of warfarin include deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, atrial fibrillation, artificial heart valves and hereditary blood disorders.

Why can't I just go to my primary care provider for this service?

Studies have shown that warfarin can be regulated more effectively and safely by specially trained nurses and pharmacists than by individual physicians and their staff. Going to a laboratory for blood testing and then waiting to hear from a physician's office for the result and instructions is time consuming and inconvenient. An anticoagulation service will accomplish all of this in one short, convenient visit.

How much will this cost, and will my insurance cover it?

The charges for this service will be based on the services provided. However, most insurance policies will cover the cost. Check with your insurance company about your specific benefits.

Will my primary care provider by aware of what is going on with my blood testing?

Yes, information will be available to your primary care provider, and they will be consulted when necessary.

What are the qualifications of the people working for this service?

Anticoagulation service staff includes licensed nurses and pharmacists specially trained in anticoagulation therapies. The protocols used to manage warfarin and other anticoagulation medicines were developed by team at Mayo Clinic physicians and pharmacists using nationally accepted published guidelines. The team continuously reviews published guidelines and updates the service's protocols to ensure they're consistent with current best practices.

Do I need a referral from my doctor?

Yes. If your physician believes this service is right for you, they will refer you to the Anticoagulation service. After receiving the referral, you will be called to schedule your first visit.

Do I need an appointment?

You'll be expected to have appointments, which will be scheduled by our staff. If you come without an appointment, you will be accommodated when possible.