Can the HAL medical dept. provide an INR test?

[PSR]

One person in our cruise party may need an INR test (for testing coagulation times while on a blood thinner) during our cruise. Does anyone know if this is available or have previous experience with the test on board? Thanks for any information.

[geniesue]

No experience on HAL,  but availabie on Princess for my husband.  I did call Princess medical department prior to sailing to insure the test could be done on board.

[nocl]

1 hour ago, PSR said:

One person in our cruise party may need an INR test (for testing coagulation times while on a blood thinner) during our cruise. Does anyone know if this is available or have previous experience with the test on board? Thanks for any information.

You need to contact the medical department for HAL.  I would expect that they can but they need to confirm.  This used to be the fax number (206) 298-3014. for the ships services department.  You might try faxing the requirements to this number along with your contact information.

[HAL4NOW]

4 hours ago, PSR said:

One person in our cruise party may need an INR test (for testing coagulation times while on a blood thinner) during our cruise. Does anyone know if this is available or have previous experience with the test on board? Thanks for any information.

In-home INR testing is available. If the person in your cruise party is a good candidate for doing self testing they might want to look into it prior to the cruise. Then they wouldn't have to rely on the ships medical personel (although I am sure HAL medical personal are more than qualified to perform an INR test).

Here is a link to an article from the North American Thrombrosis Forum (NATF):  INR Testing at Home: What You Need to Know (natfonline.org)

[PSR]

Thank you all for the information. Will look into the options.😊

Edited January 2, 2022 by PSR

[whirlybird3]

It is possible the test can be done, but it could be expensive.  Not only you would be charged for the lab test, you will be charged a MD assessment fee, lab draw free and then the lab test. It will be charged on your account then you can request a reimbursement from your insurance. 

[forwardho]

I have home INR testing now for about two years. My insurance pays for it. My PCP set it up. It is great for those of us that will be on thinners for life!