A Case for the Management of Anticoagulation Clinics by Pharmacists
Abstract
Warfarin is one of the most widely prescribed anticoagulants globally for the management of various hyper-coagulable diseases. Despite its potency and reliable bioavailability, it has a narrow therapeutic index and also interacts with several medications hence requiring close monitoring. Pharmacists in developed countries have taken up the role of the monitoring and management of patients on warfarin therapy occasioned by collaborative practice agreements. There has been evidence of cost savings and beneficial outcomes in patients who receive care at pharmacist-managed anticoagulation clinics. This article seeks to share the rationale behind executing anticoagulation clinics managed by pharmacists in Ghana and a potential roadmap to achieving that based on the evidence of other countries.