Blood thinners save lives by preventing dangerous clots, but those on medications like warfarin require close monitoring. Munson Healthcare Manistee Hospital is launching an anticoagulation clinic this month to make it easier for those on these powerful drugs to get the recommended regular testing and follow-up care.
The clinic, which will begin seeing patients January 14 in the Manistee Community Health Center at 1345 E. Parkdale Ave., is staffed by a specially trained pharmacist who will work closely with the patients’ primary care providers on medication management. Internal medicine specialist Charles VandenBerg, DO, serves as the program’s medical director.
“We’re excited to offer this service to the community,” said Manistee Hospital anticoagulation pharmacist Amanda Lipps, PharmD. “Patients on warfarin (Coumadin©) should have their blood tested regularly to ensure it’s clotting appropriately, but it can be challenging for people to make frequent visits to their primary care provider. We hope the clinic will be more convenient.”
The testing at the anticoagulation clinic will also be minimally invasive. “We’ll be able to run the clotting test with a simple fingerstick instead of a traditional blood draw,” explained Lipps. “And we’ll have the results by the end of the appointment, so any necessary adjustments can be made right away.” The clinic will transmit results and any dosage recommendations to primary care providers, ensuring the patient’s health care team is in the loop.
Participation in the program requires a referral from a primary care provider. Individuals on blood thinners who are interested in the program should contact their doctor’s office about obtaining a referral. The anticoagulation clinic’s services are covered by most insurances.
Health care providers wanting more information or to make a referral may contact the clinic at 231-398-1756.