AHSN wins national award for AF patient information

Our special information video and leaflet for patients who have been prescribed anticoagulants, won a national award last night (11 October).

'Starting Anticoagulation with Jack' won in the Best Written Advice on Anticoagulation Therapy for Patients and Carers category at the inaugural award ceremony for the prestigious Anticoagulation Achievement Awards (AAA).

The event was hosted by Andrew Gwynne MP, and Chair of the All Party Group for Thrombosis, in

the Terrace Pavilion, House of Commons.

Starting Anticoagulation with Jack was developed by clinicians and our team working to tackle Atrial Fibrillation (AF)-related stroke. It creatively explains the potential side-effects of taking anticoagulant medicines. You can view the video, and patient leaflet below. To date, the video has received over 20,000 views and plays.

Anticoagulants are prescribed to prevent harmful blood clots that can lead to stroke. They are designed to prevent or treat clots, but can increase the risk of bleeding. Patients and carers need advice and information about how these medicines work, and their potential side effects.

'Starting Anticoagulation with Jack' was developed to meet this need for patients, their family and carers after anticoagulants have been prescribed. It explains about clotting and why abnormal clots can form as people age. The different types of medicines are shown, and Jack and his son talk about Jack’s concerns, side effects and sources of support.

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