Specialized family resources

If a patient has been diagnosed with an inherited clotting disorder such as factor V Leiden, his or her family members might also be affected and should be tested. Testing of family members allows for appropriate preventive healthcare management and for individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare. This information may be helpful in medical decision making in certain circumstances, such as pregnancy, type of birth control utilized, and surgery.

Family members who might be at risk for these conditions may visit a hematologist to have this testing performed. Many hemophilia treatment centers provide this testing and education for affected individuals. In addition, the IHTC also has a genetic counselor who can explain this testing and the test results to patients and their families.

The IHTC has an expert medical team with years of experience in the diagnosis of clotting disorders and anticoagulation management. The IHTC’s registered dietitian provides information and advice on diet-related issues that affect anticoagulant medications, particularly warfarin.

MEDICAL COORDINATION

Warfarin Management

Warfarin requires frequent laboratory testing to check to see if your blood thinner is working correctly. The IHTC can coordinate this with your local physician’s laboratory and contact you with recommendations based on the results.

Point of Care Testing

The IHTC offers international normalized ratio testing by fingerstick at our office. We also have coordinated home monitoring for patients on long-term warfarin.

Surgery and dental procedures

The IHTC regularly works with surgeons, dentists, and any other provider to develop a plan for stopping and restarting your blood thinner before and after the procedure.

Pregnancy/delivery management

The IHTC provides pregnancy plans for the management of labor and delivery for women who are using blood thinners. We coordinate the plan with your OB/GYN to help you have the best outcome.