Choosing Warfarin Dosing Software

Criteria to use when assessing and choosing an anticoagulation management solution

Assessing and comparing different anticoagulation management software options can be difficult, particularly if this is unfamiliar territory. Below is some guidance on comparing the various systems available.

General

  • Is the program suitable for primary and secondary care clinics?
  • How long has it been available?
  • How many anticoagulation clinics are using it?
  • Does the software comply with NHS and GMS requirements (i.e. level 2-3-4 'Enhanced Service')
  • Does the software comply with NPSA guidelines on anticoagulation (Alert 18)
  • How long has the supplier been in business?
  • Is the supplier certified to a quality standard, for example European Medical Device Directive (93/42/EEC)?
  • What product liability insurance do they hold?

Ease of assessment

  • Is a trial or online demonstration available?
  • Is there a cost associated with the trial?
  • Is further information readily available?

User interface & flexibility

  • Is the user interface intuitive and easy to use?
  • How long does it take to perform standard tasks, such as adding or dosing a patient?
  • How easy is it to get to the documentation or on-line help?
  • What documentation is available?
    • Getting Started Guide?
    • Context sensitive help?
    • Conventional help?
    • Web based help?
    • FAQs
  • Does the program dictate settings or does the clinician remain in control?
  • Can recommended treatments be referred to the supervising clinician?

Safety & Security

  • Does the software comply with the the European Medical Device Directive (93/42/EEC)
  • Does the software aide clinical risk assessment?
  • What auditing of user actions is available?
  • Does the software present clear warnings for users when necessary?
  • Are clear written instructions available for the patient?
  • Can extra messages be added to the patient printouts to accommodate local conditions?
  • Can the program be integrated into your clinical system?
  • For patients on warfarin - Can patients be initiated using a built-in algorithm?
  • Are different levels of user access available?
  • Can users be given their own accounts and secure passwords?

Maintenance & training

  • What level of technical support is available and by what channels?
  • Are upgrades available without further charge?
  • What data analysis is available?
  • What training is available on the use of the program?

Reports

  • What reports are available and at what cost?
  • Are custom reports available and at what cost?
  • How clear and useful are the reports?
  • Are they graphical?
  • Can they be exported to office programs or e-mailed to colleagues?

Cost

  • Can multiple copies be installed without further charge?
  • Will the program be efficient to use, minimising staff time?

Useful links

The links below provide further information that those planning to introduce a

INRstar’s comprehensive anticoagulation management solution improves efficiency, increases patient safety and reduces overall service cost.