Coumadin Clinic

The Legacy Heart Center Coumadin Clinic provides who are taking the blood thinner Coumadin with instant information on whether or not their dosage is at the correct level. A level of Coumadin which is too high can cause bleeding problems. A level of Coumadin which is too low can allow clots to form.

Previously, a patient needed to have his/her blood drawn from an arm vein in the lab, analyzed and reported to the physician, a process that could take up to 48 hours.

The Coumadin Clinic streamlines this process. Staffed by nursing professionals who specialize in anticoagulation therapy, the clinic uses the latest technology to obtain "instant" results with a Protime INR blood test that is done with a finger prick. With only a few drops of blood the nurse can determine if a dosage adjustment is required, and can discuss the change "face to face. Most importantly, the nurse can educate the patient about Coumadin and answer any questions about Coumadin therapy.

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.

Protime INR tests are done every day or every other day when patients start taking Coumadin. As the correct dose is determined, blood tests are decreased to once a week and then once a month.

The Legacy Heart Center Coumadin Clinic is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Clinic visits are by appointment only.

If you are a physician and are interested in obtaining additional information on the Coumadin Clinic, or if you have a patient who you would like to refer to the clinic, please contact us at (469) 326-3400. Your patient may use the services of our Coumadin Clinic and continue to be managed by you.