OBJECTIVE: To investigate the current state of knowledge and implementation of two new directives. After the release of new directives it will take some time before everyone is aware of them and implementation is achieved. Implementation of the Nationwide standard of continuous care of anticoagulation and the Directive for regulated introduction of new oral anticoagulants was investigated in the hospital setting six months after release. DESIGN AND METHODS Structured questionnaires were used to interview hospital pharmacists and specialists involved in prescribing anticoagulant drugs. RESULTS: In total, 27 hospital pharmacists and 48 specialists participated. In general the standard and directive are better known by hospital pharmacists than by specialists. The implementation of parts of the standard, especially some indicators, are lagging behind and need extra attention. CONCLUSION: Many hospitals have started the implementation of standard and directive but it will take more time to fully implement them.