About This Project

The Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) Communication Guide offers clinicians patient-centered strategies for effectively communicating a VTE diagnosis in acute care settings and beyond. By fostering clear and empathetic communication, this toolkit helps clinicians better explain VTE diagnosis and treatment, with the objective of empowering patients to make informed decisions and engage in their healthcare.

Developed by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, communication and mental health experts, and patients with VTE, this toolkit informs best practice for communication throughout the VTE diagnostic journey and provides tailored guidance for clinicians at three key timepoints:

• Immediate care: First hours to 1 week post-diagnosis
• Intermediate care: 0-3 months post-diagnosis
• Long-term care: Beyond 3 months post-diagnosis

The toolkit includes three main sections:

1. Clinician Guide: Offers guidance on essential topics to discuss from the point of diagnosis through treatment and beyond.

2. Patient Tab: Lists questions relevant to all patients at different stages of their VTE journey.

• To maintain global utility, the toolkit does not contain responses to the patient-facing questions, as these answers may vary over time and differ by healthcare system and culture. The questions are intended to guide clinicians on key topics that may come up with patients.

3. Communication Pearls: Found in the main menu, this section provides evidence-based best practices for communication across various care settings and stages.