Barriers to self-testing

[AnneTS]

I don't know whether to laugh or cry! I have been self-testing for some time now without any problems. My previous hospital haematologist was supportive. Two or three years ago a new, younger haematologist replaced my now retired Consultant. The new Consultant stopped all self-testing and said that a contract would have to be signed between the hospital and the patient before self-testing could be allowed. After a year of faffing about I brought it to the hospital's attention the recommendations for self-testing by NICE. I was then allowed to carry on self-testing. The Consultant is still banging on about having to sign a contract (which is still not forthcoming) for self-testing. Has anyone, anywhere had to do this? I have my machine checked every 6 months as per NICE guidelines and have no problems whatsoever. I have been on Warfarin for 30+ years. Annel

[rosyG]

when I self tested, I had to sign something at my GP surgery think it was about being checked at clinic every so often etc. I think it is to cover their liability as not all patients will keep to right test intervals/ meds etc. I take Apixaban now so no issues!

[AnneTS in reply to rosyG]

Thanks for your reply Rosy. It makes sense to me now!!

[ClickerTicker]

I've been self-testing since about 2003 - about a year after my Mitral Valve Replacement. My GP did express some concern, particularly after I started self dosing as well. I wrote him a letter accepting full responsibility and that did the trick. I've had very few problems since, although I have to be really careful to eat enough greenery whilst on holiday so that it matches the amount I eat at home - otherwise my INR shoots up rapidly.

[AnneTS in reply to ClickerTicker]

Thank you for your reply Clicker Ticker. It was helpful. I have an algorithm which my previous haematologist allowed me to have and I use it when I am on long holidays and find it works well. I would love to self-dose but the new haematologist at our local hospital seems to be very, very cautious about self-testing. It helps knowing that others, like you, can self-test and self-dose without any problems. Annel

[moo196]

I self dosed when travelling in China.... But was never allowed to self test.

Good luck