Consumer information

Consumer videos

In these consumer stories, Marion, Graham and Russ talk about the importance of involving patients and their whānau in the decision-making process and how it is important for clinicians to communicate in plain, easily accessible language. 

• Marion and Graham's story
• Russ's story

About anticoagulants

Anticoagulants are medicines that help prevent blood clots from forming and stop existing clots from growing bigger. However, they can cause harm even when used as intended. These risks can be avoided if appropriate protocols and procedures are used.  

Anticoagulants can be used in a range of medical situations. Below are links to information about them; however, it is important to discuss your care with your primary care practitioners, including your GP and local pharmacist.

Links and useful resources

• About anticoagulants: General information about anticoagulants, what they do and their risks (Healthify)
• Anticoagulants: names, uses and side effects (New Zealand Heart Foundation)

Te Tāhū Hauora anticoagulation stewardship project

Te Tāhū Hauora is working on a nationwide approach to promote safe, high-quality patient care by improving the management of anticoagulants in health care settings. This includes the development of consumer and whānau resources. Consumer perspectives are included throughout our work, guided by the Code of expectations for health entities’ engagement with consumers and whānau. We will add consumer and whānau resources to this website as they become available.

Get in touch

If you would like more information or are interested in being involved in the project, please contact us at anticoagproject@hqsc.govt.nz.