Box 2.

Functions of an ideal anticoagulation service

1. Determine the appropriate clinical indications for anticoagulant treatment

2. Choose the best drug in relation to clinical patient profile

3. Evaluate any potential pharmacological interference, in particular in the elderly

4. Control drug adherence, that for VKAs is guaranteed through laboratory test

5. Define a follow-up program

6. Define educational programs to increase adherence

7. Manage patients undergoing surgical interventions or invasive procedures

8. Manage patients with bleeding and thrombotic complications, during anticoagulant treatment

9. Manage patients during intercurrent diseases

10. Choose the best laboratory test for each molecule to support clinical and therapeutical activities

VKAs=Vitamin k antagonist anticoagulant