Warfarin Support Group
When a patient is put on Warfarin, Medical Practitioners will often request that QML Pathology assist in controlling this patient's ongoing dosage requirements. Our dedicated patient liaison team of Pathologists and call centre staff work together to ensure that patients are provided with updated test results and dosing, and are comfortable with the process.
In order to streamline the procedure we have a number of processes in place regarding when the patient must have their blood test and when they will be contacted by one of our staff members.
However, if you have any concerns or queries please contact our support service on 1300 661 963 during the following hours:
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Monday - Friday |
7.00am - 6.00pm |
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Saturday |
7.00am - 5.00pm |
For further information regarding the process please click on any of the links below:
INR Blood Testing Information
An INR (International Normalised Ratio) blood test is performed for patients taking Warfarin. The results of the INR are then used to adjust the Warfarin dosage at particular intervals. When you begin taking Warfarin, blood tests will initially be done every 2-3 days until the result begins to stabilise (this may take approximately 1-2 weeks).
Testing time will then become weekly extending up to 12 weeks as time progresses (please note: not all patients will be allowed to test at 12 week intervals due to various external factors - i.e. diet, other medication, illness, stress or travel).
Getting your blood test
It is preferable that you have your blood test early in the morning. This can be done at any of our QML Pathology collection centres.
Receiving Your Results
QML Pathology will telephone you with your dose of Warfarin, i.e. the tablets you will need to take until your next test. At this time you will also be informed of your test results and the date you are required to have your next blood test. Please have a pen and paper to write this vital information down.
If you are a NEW patient.... QML Pathology will endeavour to phone you on the same day your blood test is performed. If you do not receive a call from the Warfarin Support Service by 7.30am the next day, please phone us on 1300 661 963 and quote your patient reference number.
If you cannot make contact with the support service, continue with your current dose until contact is achieved. Be assured that abnormal results are dealt with as a matter of urgency and you will be phoned ASAP in this case. If you are experiencing significant bleeding you must seek medical advice ASAP through your doctor or hospital.
If you are an ESTABLISHED patient.... and an abnormal result is identified you will be contacted as a matter of urgency by our staff. If no abnormal result is identified it is important you continue taking your current dose of Warfarin. You will be contacted within 48 hours to confirm your results and the date of your next blood test. If you do not receive a phone call after 48 hours please phone us on 1300 661 963 and quote your patient reference number.
If you are experiencing significant bleeding you must seek medical advice ASAP through your doctor or hospital.
Your assistance in the management of your Warfarin therapy is greatly appreciated.
